Backstage Update On Kairi Sane Leaving WWE

Another day, another development in the Sane saga.

by Andy H Murray
Kairi Sane
WWE

A new article from Tokyo Sports has reiterated that Kairi Sane will indeed be leaving WWE to return to her native Japan following her contract's expiration, adding that the promotion is expected to announce this close to SummerSlam (23 August).

Sane's future has been the subject of mass speculation since a Fightful report referred to her WWE status as "complicated" two weeks ago. The Wrestling Observer's Dave Meltzer then stated that the Kabuki Warrior would be leaving the company in August, adding that WWE had suggested moving her into an ambassadorial role, though this was quickly followed by reports that the promotion would offer Sane a bumper new contract to convince her to stay.

Kairi has remained on Raw through the speculation, with her and partner Asuka losing to Sasha Banks and Bayley on this week's Raw. Raw Talk then saw the former 'Pirate Princess' tease a Raw Women's Title match with 'The Empress of Tomorrow' - provided Asuka gets past Banks at The Horror Show at Extreme Rules this weekend.

Advertisement

SummerSlam 2020 had already been mentioned as a potential endpoint for Sane's WWE career. Perhaps that's where she'll wrestle Asuka.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.