In recent weeks, tension has risen between Asuka and IYO SKY, placing Kairi Sane in a difficult position as she remains loyal to Asuka despite the challenges. This loyalty is notable amid the quiet dissolution of Damage CTRL and ongoing rivalries within WWE’s women’s division.
This past Monday on WWE RAW, Kairi Sane competed against Stephanie Vaquer, with Asuka supporting her from the sidelines. Although La Primera secured the victory, the match featured a significant moment when Asuka exchanged a tense staredown with Vaquer just before IYO SKY arrived on the scene.
Following the confrontation, Asuka took to her KanaChanTV YouTube channel to explain the strained relationship she has with IYO SKY and why Kairi Sane continues to stand by her.
Asuka’s Perspective on Leadership and Relationships in Wrestling
Asuka described the cultural differences that influence her approach to leadership and teamwork, particularly contrasting Japan‘s senpai-kohai system with American practices. She emphasized her rejection of hierarchical demands often present in Japan, advocating instead for respectful and open communication.
“So listen, Japan’s got this senpai-kohai system, but America doesn’t have that, right? In Japan, when a senior gives orders to a junior, they gotta follow ’em no matter what, right? But I think doin’ stuff like that is absolutely wrong. That’s why I never give orders to anyone, especially with the juniors. I’m nice to ’em and create an environment where they can say, ‘I don’t like that’ if they don’t wanna do something, right? I never wanna be all high and mighty with people,” Asuka said.
This statement reflects Asuka’s desire to foster a more egalitarian atmosphere, which may contrast with IYO SKY’s approach and contribute to their ongoing issues. Meanwhile, Kairi Sane’s demeanor during Asuka’s explanation suggested she silently disagreed with her senior’s viewpoint but chose to remain loyal.

Upcoming Women’s World Championship Match at Wrestlepalooza
The forthcoming Wrestlepalooza event will feature five scheduled matches, including the Women’s World Championship bout between IYO SKY and Stephanie Vaquer. This title match came about after Naomi vacated the championship due to pregnancy, and was initially planned for Clash in Paris.
With IYO SKY and Vaquer now set to clash for the title, speculation arises about the involvement of Asuka and Kairi Sane in the event’s storyline. The Kabuki Warriors, comprising Asuka and Sane, have ongoing conflicts with Rhea Ripley and Nikki Bella, which could influence the championship dynamics during Wrestlepalooza.
Implications of Kairi Sane’s Loyalty Amidst Internal Conflict
Kairi Sane’s steadfast loyalty to Asuka, even while tensions simmer between Asuka and IYO SKY, signals a complex dynamic within WWE’s women’s roster. This allegiance suggests that despite personal disagreements, bonds formed within the wrestling community carry significant weight, potentially affecting alliances and rivalries in upcoming matches.
Given the intricate relationships among the wrestlers and the shifting landscape following Damage CTRL’s disbandment, Sane’s position may prove pivotal in future developments. The Wrestlepalooza event will be a critical moment to observe how these tensions unfold inside and outside the ring, potentially reshaping rivalries and partnerships within WWE.
