Asuka shows off new look ahead of imminent WWE return

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The WWE Universe is once again buzzing over the rumored return of Asuka. The Damage CTR member has been out of action for more than one year now, and the RAW women's division has changed in a major way. Asuka herself has also made a significant change, which she just revealed to fans tonight.

The Empress of Tomorrow last wrestled on May 4, 2024, at Backlash France, where she and Kairi Sane dropped the Women's Tag Team Championship to Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair. Asuka underwent surgery to repair a nagging knee injury shortly after the match, and since then, she has been the subject of increased fan speculation. WWE's creative writing team has worked on potential comeback plans for Asuka in recent months, but no return date has been confirmed.

Asuka is known to change her hairstyles, overall looks, and wrestling persona at times. The 43-year-old has teased encounters with top RAW newcomers when she returns, and now she's revealed a drastic change to her overall appearance. Asuka took to Instagram today to share a photo of the new look with no caption.

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Asuka is returning to action as a three-time Women's Champion, a one-time SmackDown Women's Champion, and a one-time NXT Women's Champion. She is also a four-time Women's Tag Team Champion.

Asuka rumored for potential WWE RAW feud

Monday's WWE RAW will feature the go-home build for Money in the Bank. With Asuka rumored for an upcoming return, she is expected to return to RAW to reunite with Damage CTRL. Kairi Sane also made her recent return from an injury and immediately had to deal with The Judgment Day's Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.

Sane defeated Morgan on last week's RAW despite interference from Roxanne Perez on behalf of Morgan. Raquel Rodriguez is expected to face Sane this week, and a return by Asuka could be fitting as it would help even the odds against the heel Superstars.

Asuka's upcoming RAW return could also set up a match between The Kabuki Warriors and the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions. Sane and Asuka dropped the titles to Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill in their last match together, and many feel now is the perfect time to make them three-time champions.