Eight years ago, Saraya’s wrestling career came to a sudden and terrifying halt. On December 27, 2017, during a WWE house show in Uniondale, New York, the wrestler then known as Paige suffered a severe neck injury after taking a kick to the back from Sasha Banks (now Mercedes Moné). The impact resulted in temporary paralysis and forced her to announce her retirement the following year.
Taking to social media on the anniversary of the incident, Saraya reflected on the journey she has been on since that fateful night.
“8 years yesterday from when I thought my career was over during a Uniondale house show. What a ride it’s been since. Grateful for my health, family, friends and fans. You truly keep me going! My noodle neck is as strong as ever haha,” she wrote.
Saraya defied the odds by making a triumphant return to the ring in 2022 with AEW, where she enjoyed a three-year run that included capturing the AEW Women’s World Championship. Having recently left the company and returned to the independent circuit with Insane Wrestling Revolution, Saraya is looking forward to the future.
“Can’t wait for what 2026 has in store,” she added.
