The SmackDown women’s division has been in a state of flux in recent weeks, with injuries and new arrivals shaking up the establishment. The result has been a raft of new potential match-ups and exciting new rivalries at every turn, something that hasn’t gone unnoticed by former Women’s Champion Carmella.
On July 9th it was revealed that Bayley would be out of action for nine months after sustaining a serious knee injury. With Bayley out of contention, Carmella was chosen to challenge Bianca Belair for the SmackDown Women’s Championship in the lead up to Money In The Bank.
On the same day that it was revealed that Bayley was injured, NXT Superstars Shotzi Blackheart and Tegan Nox arrived on the blue brand defeating Tag Team Champions Natalya and Tamina. The pair were followed onto SmackDown by Toni Storm on July 23rd who defeated Zelina Vega, who herself has only just returned to WWE.
Speaking to Rick Ucchino of Sportkeeda, Carmella said that she was excited about the new arrivals, adding it creates new opportunities for everyone.
“It’s really cool, you know. I was just thinking earlier, I don’t know if we have had a proper draft or people getting called up since 2016, the original draft when they did the brand split. You know, there are a few people who have trickled in here and there on both sides but to have this new crop coming up is really cool, and it’s really exciting. It’s great for the division, well new and fresh match-ups, and it’s a fresh coat of paint for the characters that are already established here on SmackDown. It’s an opportunity to have new storylines. I’m really excited and I never get upset with more people coming in. I think the more, the merrier, the better. And I think it’s great for new opportunities for everyone,”
Carmella then turned her attention to former NXT UK Women’s Champion Toni Storm. The former Ms Money In The Bank said that she’d love to step into the ring with Storm, taking issue with her recent outfit choices.
“Oh I want to get in the ring with Toni Storm. I mean I’ve been seeing her wear some leopard prints. I’m like, ‘Uh-huh girl. That’s mine!’ [laughs]”
Storm, who was victorious in her main roster debut has also recently caught the eye of Jim Cornette. Speaking on a recent episode of his podcast, the legendary manager said that the former NXT Superstar “looks like a star.”
Meanwhile, after finding herself thrust into championship contention, Carmella has continued to clash with Bianca Belair. After being defeated by the champion ahead of Money In The Bank, Carmella faced Belair in a rematch on the July 23rd edition of SmackDown at Rolling Loud Miami music festival.
However, despite the new surroundings, the result was the same as the former champion was once again defeated by Belair.
H/t to Sportskeeda for the transcription.