Jade Cargill’s current position as Women’s Champion in WWE has ignited frustration among fans, as her reign continues without a televised title defense. The Jade Cargill WWE championship status has come under scrutiny since her high-profile debut and initial dominance have yet to translate into major storylines or significant matchups on air.
A Highly Promoted Signing Faces Booking Challenges
Jade Cargill became one of WWE’s landmark acquisitions in 2023, arriving shortly after CM Punk’s return to the company that fall. Known as “The Storm,” Cargill was WWE’s first major signing from AEW without prior superstar status and arrived with an unbeaten streak and the distinction of being the first TBS Champion. WWE highlighted her arrival with extensive coverage—showing her progress in the Performance Center, featuring her backstage at the 2023 Fastlane premium live event, and giving her an in-ring debut during the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble. Despite a powerful resume and major publicity, Triple H and those in charge have seemingly grappled with effectively featuring her as champion.
Absence of Televised Title Defenses Raises Concerns
Cargill secured the Women’s Championship after defeating Tiffany Stratton on the November 1 episode of Saturday Night’s Main Event. Yet, since that victory, her presence as champion has been minimal on WWE television, limited mainly to brief segments and promos on Friday Night SmackDown. Cargill’s interactions have included confronting superstars like Chelsea Green, B-Fab, and Michin, but the championship itself has not been defended in front of a televised audience.
While Jade did participate in several championship defenses against Michin, B-Fab, and Bayley, these matches took place during WWE’s non-televised Live Holiday Tour events in December. Because these appearances were off-air, they are not considered part of current storylines, leaving her reign with little exposure and the championship lacking prominence on television.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Redemption
There is still an opportunity for change, as WWE and Triple H could revitalize Cargill’s championship run. In 2026, Friday Night SmackDown is set to expand to a three-hour format, potentially allowing for more comprehensive storytelling around the Women’s Championship. This new format could provide the time needed for Cargill to engage with high-profile talents such as Nia Jax, Alexa Bliss, and Charlotte Flair, as well as give chances to rising stars like Candice LeRae and Zelina Vega.
With Chelsea Green no longer holding the Women’s United States title, she emerges as another possible challenger for Cargill’s championship. The increase in airtime and roster opportunities could help establish the Jade Cargill WWE championship status as a more central and respected feature of the promotion going forward.
The ongoing debate about Cargill’s reign reflects broader concerns about WWE’s approach to elevating new talent and maintaining the prestige of its top titles, highlighting how fan expectations continue to shape the company’s booking decisions and the trajectory of its superstars.
