Will Ospreay, a prominent AEW wrestler and backstage producer, recently highlighted the return of former WWE star Charlie, previously known as Dakota Kai, to professional wrestling after nearly a year away. Charlie made her in-ring comeback on March 8 at the Pro Wrestling EVE Wrestle Queendom VIII event, where she contested for Kris Statlander’s EVE International Championship but did not succeed.
This match was Charlie’s first performance since her last WWE appearance on March 27, 2025, during the WWE Main Event episode where she defeated Ivy Nile. Following her release from WWE in May 2025, this marked a significant return for the former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion.
Will Ospreay Applauds Charlie’s Smooth Return to Wrestling
During the Wrestle Queendom VIII event, Will Ospreay took to Twitter to acknowledge the efforts of various performers and crew members involved in the show. Specifically about Charlie, Ospreay expressed his admiration for her seamless transition back into the ring after an extended break.
He wrote,
“Charlie. Nearly a year out of the wrestling bubble and Charlie walks into one of the biggest high profile matches in the history of EVE and showed everyone it’s just like riding a bike. Cannot tell you enough to be able to have someone of her calibre and to get her comeback match…..honoured to welcome her back to wrestling.”
Charlie.
Nearly a year out of the wrestling bubble and Charlie walks into one of the biggest high profile matches in the history of EVE and showed everyone it’s just like riding a bike.
Cannot tell you enough to be able to have someone of her calibre and to get her comeback… pic.twitter.com/ziCMHAxSJz
— Will Ospreay • ウィル・オスプレイ (@WillOspreay) March 10, 2026
Context Around Charlie’s Career and Wrestling Return
Charlie’s return has generated interest from wrestling fans and insiders alike, particularly given her former status as a WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion and her reputation within the industry. Her performance at Wrestle Queendom VIII underscored her enduring skill and resilience, despite the nearly year-long hiatus from mainstream wrestling.
Will Ospreay’s acknowledgment reflects both respect for Charlie’s abilities and excitement about her potential future in wrestling. Previously, Ospreay had also commented on the possibility of Charlie joining AEW, adding to the speculation about her next career steps.
The Importance of Charlie’s Return for Wrestling Fans and Industry
Charlie’s comeback carries significance for wrestling enthusiasts who have followed her career, as well as the broader wrestling community. Her ability to step back into a major match and immediately deliver a strong performance signals a positive development in the dynamic between different wrestling organizations.
Ospreay’s public praise amplifies this sentiment, suggesting that Charlie’s return could inspire other wrestlers who have taken extended breaks. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how her wrestling journey unfolds following this promising resurgence.
Charlie.
Nearly a year out of the wrestling bubble and Charlie walks into one of the biggest high profile matches in the history of EVE and showed everyone it’s just like riding a bike.
Cannot tell you enough to be able to have someone of her calibre and to get her comeback… pic.twitter.com/ziCMHAxSJz
— Will Ospreay • ウィル・オスプレイ (@WillOspreay) March 10, 2026
Charlie.
Nearly a year out of the wrestling bubble and Charlie walks into one of the biggest high profile matches in the history of EVE and showed everyone it’s just like riding a bike.
Cannot tell you enough to be able to have someone of her calibre and to get her comeback… pic.twitter.com/ziCMHAxSJz
— Will Ospreay • ウィル・オスプレイ (@WillOspreay) March 10, 2026
