Charlie, previously known as Dakota Kai in WWE, made her in-ring comeback this past Sunday, facing AEW star Kris Statlander at Pro-Wrestling: EVE Wrestle Queendom VIII in London. This return has sparked fan excitement on social media, with many urging Tony Khan to sign the New Zealand wrestler to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). The opportunity to see a former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion compete in AEW has generated considerable buzz among wrestling enthusiasts.
Career Highlights and WWE Background
Dakota Kai initially gained worldwide recognition during her tenure with WWE’s NXT brand, competing against notable names such as Shayna Baszler, Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, and Mia Yim. Over her career, she formed significant in-ring relationships, often sharing the spotlight with Tegan Nox and Raquel Rodriguez as both partners and rivals. Though WWE released her in April 2022, she made a surprise return at SummerSlam a few months later. Her main roster run as part of Damage CTRL ended in May 2023 following her second release from the company.
Fan Reactions to Charlie’s AEW-Style Return
Following her match against Kris Statlander for the EVE International Championship, fans quickly voiced their enthusiasm online. Social media users called on AEW president Tony Khan to bring Charlie into the promotion. Some proposed potential feuds, imagining contests against Mercedes Mone and Mina Shirakawa, which would add fresh storylines to AEW’s roster. This enthusiastic response highlights the anticipation surrounding her next career move.
Charlie on Prospects of Joining AEW
Before her return match, Charlie shared her thoughts on future possibilities during an appearance on Busted Open Radio. She expressed openness to competing in AEW or TNA, embracing the chance to face new opponents and evolve her wrestling journey.
“I think once I get back into it, both [AEW and TNA] and so many more have people that I would love to face in the ring. I haven’t really like pinpointed it down to any particular thing. I just think once I do this match [against Kris Statlander] and get the wheels turning again and doing all that, wherever my path may lead, I’m open to it completely,” she said. [H/T – WrestlePurists on X]
The Road Ahead for Dakota Kai in Wrestling
While it remains uncertain if Tony Khan will sign Dakota Kai to AEW in the near future, her return match and openness about potential opportunities have fueled speculation. Her established reputation and dynamic in-ring style could make her a valuable addition to AEW’s growing women’s division. Fans and industry watchers alike will be monitoring developments closely to see if Charlie officially joins the Tony Khan-led company, potentially reshaping her wrestling career once again.
CHARLIE IN PRO WRESTLING EVE!
Charlie fka Evie/Dakota Kai’s entrance for her first pro wrestling match since March 2025… against Kris Statlander tonight in UK. 🔥
pic.twitter.com/0OoY3IhmHc— Drainmaker (@TheDrainmaker) March 8, 2026
