For much of 2011, Kelly reigned as the face of the Divas division, successfully defending the belt against the likes of the Bella Twins and Beth Phoenix every whichway. By May 2012, Kelly, only 25 years old, had requested time off. The Wrestling Observer reported at the time that Kelly was having cold feet about signing a long-term contract to stay on with WWE. After a very brief return in August 2012, Kelly was out the door of WWE by the end of September, once it was clear that she wasn't going to sign the deal. Kelly wanted to pursue opportunities outside of wrestling, a common theme among departing Divas. The Observer also reported that Kelly was forced to turn down many media appearances, per WWE's demand.