Hikaru Shida’s long-awaited return to AEW television officially took place on Thursday’s Collision, with the former three-time AEW Women’s World Champion answering Willow Nightingale’s open challenge for the AEW TBS Championship. Nightingale retained the title, defeating Shida in the returning star’s first AEW bout since November 2024.
Shida’s return had been anticipated since reports emerged that her work visa issues — which had kept her away from AEW programming — were resolved some time ago. Her debut back on Collision was an emotional moment, and the crowd responded warmly to her appearance after such a lengthy absence.
Hikaru Shida Teases Attacking Willow Nightingale After AEW TBS Title Loss on Collision
Following the match, Shida picked up a singapore cane and briefly teased using it on Nightingale before ultimately putting it down and walking away — a moment that hints at a potential character turn or ongoing rivalry between the two going forward. Shida’s return sets up what could be a compelling program in the AEW women’s division heading into the spring pay-per-view season.