In 2018, during a RAW event, Nia Jax unexpectedly punched Becky Lynch in the face, an incident that turned Lynch’s “The Man” persona into a major storyline, while simultaneously sparking anxiety for Jax regarding her future with WWE. Fearful she might lose her job over the mistake, Jax shared her experience of the moment during an interview with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, revealing the tension and fear she endured immediately after the accident.
Jax described how she felt the punch connect and later noticed Lynch was bleeding profusely on the mat. She recalled thinking,
“Oh my gosh, I’m in so much trouble. Like this is it. I think they’re done with me. I was getting my papers.”
However, Vince McMahon’s unexpected reaction alleviated her worst fears. She quoted him saying,
“It’s not ballet. Sh*t’s going to happen,”
and added that Vince’s main concern was whether Lynch was okay.
“He was like, ‘Is she okay?’ I was like, ‘I don’t know. I’m checking on her.’ He’s like, ‘Go check on her,’”
Jax recounted.
From Anxiety to Opportunity: The Aftermath of the Botch
Contrary to Jax’s initial worry of being fired, the incident instead gave her significant prominence on WWE programs and increased her stature as a major heel in the company. The botch incident, while unintentional, played a large role in advancing Jax’s WWE career rather than ending it.
Nia Jax’s Return to WWE and Current Role
Though WWE released Nia Jax in 2021, she has since rejoined the company and currently teams with Lash Legend, pushing hard for a shot at the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Lash Legend recently showcased strong performances, including at the latest Royal Rumble, which indicates that both women are gearing up for a higher-profile push on WWE RAW.
This development not only highlights Jax’s resilience but also suggests that WWE views her as an important part of their women’s division moving forward. The success of her partnership with Lash Legend could lead to renewed opportunities and championship pursuits in the near future.
Nia Jax on punching Becky Lynch in the face and breaking her nose
“I do realize in the moment when I hit her I felt it like on my knuckle. I was like f***.”
(@ChrisVanVliet interview) pic.twitter.com/H1JNwGUAg4
— Vick (@Vick_8122) February 3, 2026
