9 Ups & 4 Downs From Impact Wrestling (5 Jan)

7. Taya's Last Chance

The promo battle between Deonna Purrazzo and Taya Valkyrie last night made it feel as if Hard To Kill will be Taya's big farewell from Impact Wrestling. Keep in mind that her contract was reportedly set to expire this month, and with no word yet on whether or not she's re-signed, it could very well make sense.

Deonna spoke of how Valkyrie had a history of being left in the dust, with both John E. Bravo and Johnny Impact having left her side, while Valkyrie is insistent on clinging to the fact she's the longest-reigning Knockouts Champion of all time. 'The Virtuosa' said it herself - it's all Taya really has left, considering Purrazzo is predicting Rosemary will leave 'La Wera Loca' too. It's important to note here that 'The Demon Assassin' was repeatedly swept aside by Taya when she attempted to intervene at certain stages. A coincidence, or some foreshadowing?

Purrazzo and Valkyrie's Knockouts Championship bout at Hard To Kill has the potential to be a genuine Match of the Year contender if all plays out well and, most importantly, if they're given enough time to do their thing. If this is indeed Taya's last big hurrah before departing for pastures new, it's certainly an impressive way to go out, win, lose, or draw.