Wrestler Will Ospreay has encouraged former WWE star Dakota Kai to come back to the ring while she recovers from a neck injury, but her return will not be with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Known for being a four-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion, Dakota Kai originally joined WWE in 2016 and had a notable career until her initial departure in 2022. Despite returning later to join Damage CTRL alongside Bayley and IYO Sky, Kai left WWE again in May 2025 before announcing her comeback under the new alias Charlie.
Kai’s upcoming match is scheduled for Pro Wrestling EVE Wrestle Queendom VIII, where she will face Kris Statlander. Ospreay revealed in an interview that he reached out to Kai about participating in the event, to which she responded quickly with enthusiasm for the opportunity to compete again.
Collaboration Leading to a Highly Anticipated Match
In a recent Grapple Theory interview, Will Ospreay described his attempt to bring Dakota Kai into Pro Wrestling EVE’s event. He expressed how promptly she showed interest, highlighting their productive communication and her eagerness to wrestle Statlander at the iconic Indigo venue.
“I just dropped her a message and said, ‘What are the chances of making this happen?’ She got back to me right away. Like, super eager to do it. The back and forth between us was so good. She really wants to come down to EVE and celebrate this huge show in the Indigo, but more importantly, she’s really wanting to wrestle Kris Statlander.”- H/T WrestlePurists on X
Dakota Kai’s Challenge to Kris Statlander Before Their Match
Before her match for the EVE International Championship, Dakota Kai sent a direct message to Statlander. She acknowledged the difficulties she’s faced recently and expressed renewed motivation through this opportunity, while showing respect for Statlander’s credentials as a formidable opponent.
“This past year’s been tough. I’ve had so much doubt about my place in wrestling but this opportunity, it’s reigniting my passion and I’m more certain than ever. Sunday, March 8 at the Indigo O2, I’m in charge of my own story. And my opponent.. someone I’ve watched for years and has consistently blown me away. Kris, you’re impressive, strong and one h*** of a champion, but you’re in my crosshairs now. I’ll see you soon, Pro-Wrestling: Eve.”
The Impact of Dakota Kai’s Return on the Wrestling Scene
Dakota Kai’s return outside WWE and AEW, facilitated by Will Ospreay, signals a renewed chapter in her career as she takes on one of Pro Wrestling EVE’s top stars. Her match against Kris Statlander will test her resilience and ability to reclaim her status in the ring after an extended break. This return could open doors for Kai to build momentum beyond mainstream wrestling promotions and provide fresh excitement for fans anticipating her next moves.
Will Ospreay discusses getting Charlie (FKA Dakota Kai) for EVE Wrestle Queendom VIII against Kris Statlander:
“I wanted to try and find a wrestler that isn’t attached to any other major company. I just had this moment of going like, ‘Oh, Dakota Kai’s out of work right now. I… pic.twitter.com/7pNhWadyBM
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 12, 2026
