Though she did her best to keep the moment a surprise, Saraya has revealed the one person who did know she was heading to AEW!
Saraya’s blockbuster debut for All Elite Wrestling left many shocked, as she came to the aid of Athena and Toni Storm while they were being attacked by Britt Baker, Jamie Hayter, and Rebel. Although she refrained from getting physical with Baker and her squad, the former Paige left enough of an impression.
Keeping her appearance a secret was difficult for ‘The Anti-Diva’. An oversized hoodie and a pair of sunglasses shielded her prior to her entering Arthur Ashe Stadium, but one person knew exactly who was under the hood – Renee Paquette. Saraya revealed via Twitter that her former WWE Backstage colleague was made aware of the plans.
Btw @ReneePaquette knew about AEW and didn’t tell you guys… 😏 pic.twitter.com/sfWUdS9mtG
— SARAYA (@Saraya) September 25, 2022
Fightful Select reported prior to Grand Slam Dynamite that talks had taken place between AEW and the two-time WWE Divas Champion, but nothing concrete was set in stone. Furthermore, it was alleged that WWE had an interest in re-signing her once the new regime took over but ultimately, they were too late.
As of this publication, it’s unknown if Saraya will ever be cleared to compete, as she remains on the inactive list. Her last match took place in December 2017 on an untelevised WWE live event, as a career-ending neck injury prevented her in-ring career progressing any further.