WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton was ruled not to have suffered a genuine injury, which explains why her title match at Wrestlepalooza was called off. Despite concerns following a dangerous fall on SmackDown, the decision to remove her from the event stemmed mainly from logistical reasons rather than health issues.
Details of Tiffany Stratton’s Fall and Match Changes
During the September 12 SmackDown episode, Tiffany Stratton attempted a moonsault against Jade Cargill but landed badly after Cargill moved away, causing Stratton to hit her head on the concrete floor. Although it appeared serious at the time, backstage reports indicated the fall did not cause a true injury. Stratton was initially set to team with Stephanie Vaquer and Rhea Ripley at the upcoming NXT Homecoming event but was substituted by Lyra Valkyria after General Manager Ava declared Stratton was not medically cleared. This raised doubts about her participation in the Wrestlepalooza Women’s Championship match against Cargill and Nia Jax.
Backstage Revelations Explain Wrestlepalooza Match Adjustments
Mike Johnson from PWInsider clarified that the storyline injury was a cover, and Stratton was actually fine. According to insider information, the WWE Women’s Championship match was removed from Wrestlepalooza primarily to manage the event’s pacing and prevent the card from becoming too crowded, especially since this was the first premium live event on ESPN. This decision sparked speculation about the status of The Buff Barbie’s involvement at the Indianapolis-based show.
“The word backstage at SmackDown was that Tiffany Stratton is not injured and plans to move the WWE Women’s Championship bout are logistical in nature so the Wrestlepalooza show isn’t overstacked.” – Mike Johnson, PWInsider Elite
Instead of Stratton defending her title, only the vacant Women’s World Championship will be contested, featuring Stephanie Vaquer against Iyo Sky.
Update: WWE Confirms Women’s Title Match Will Proceed After Medical Clearance
On SmackDown, Nia Jax boldly claimed she could defeat any contender, including Stratton and a competitor known as Storm. In response, Tiffany Stratton interrupted Jax’s remarks, expressing frustration at being constantly mentioned. When Stratton attempted to confront Jax in the ring, security intervened to stop her. Jade Cargill then emerged and incapacitated two of the security personnel. Storm made an effort to challenge Jax as well but was similarly subdued.
This confrontation led General Manager Nick Aldis to announce a Triple Threat match scheduled for the following Friday’s SmackDown. The match will feature Tiffany Stratton, Jade Cargill, and Nia Jax competing for the WWE Women’s Championship, promising to settle the debate over the top female star on the brand.
The word backstage at SmackDown was that Tiffany Stratton is not injured and plans to move the WWE Women's Championship bout are logistical in nature so the Wrestlepalooza show isn't overstacked.
– Mike Johnson
(PWInsider Elite) pic.twitter.com/TcZOfsWuvP— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) September 20, 2025
