Final Matches Of WWE’s Latest Releases: Ranked

]Asuka Vs. Peyton Royce

Peyton Royce’s match against then-Raw Women’s Champion Asuka was promoted as an “enormous opportunity” for Royce, with hints from commentary that the bout could lead to a title shot down the line. If Peyton wasn’t being portrayed as a threat, she was at least a challenger with promise. Before the start, sections of Royce’s Raw Talk promo were shown, with the Aussie demanding “let me go and see what happens”. This phrase proved unfortunate in hindsight.

Though Asuka began taunting and having fun at Royce’s expense, after Peyton kicked out following a rough knee attack, the champion grew frustrated. Royce displayed a new aggression, almost taking Asuka out with a Gory Neckbreaker. There was no shame when Peyton tapped to the Asuka Lock.

Looking back on this match, it is perplexing it would be followed by Royce’s release. Her performance saw her break out of the pack, presenting her as a rising commodity. Of course, the moment was overshadowed by Rhea Ripley making her entrance to challenge Asuka to a title match at WrestleMania 37. Perhaps, the stacked women’s division on every brand goes some way to explain Royce’s termination.