Bayley remains off WWE television, but recent developments on Monday Night RAW suggest her program with Lyra Valkyria may not be finished.
On the August 17 episode, Valkyria once again brought up Bayley before her match against Sol Ruca, complaining that she never received any reward for beating her. Michael Cole also referenced the situation on commentary during the bout. The repeated mentions stood out given that the former WWE Women’s Champion has been absent from TV for over a month.
It wasn’t the first time. On the July 30 edition of WWE Main Event, the commentary team brought up the recent developments between Bayley and Valkyria at live events in California, an unusual move for a storyline that had seemingly been put to bed. Bayley was still working house shows in Stockton and Bakersfield, where Sol Ruca won Triple Threat Matches for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship.
Bayley’s last television appearance came at Saturday Night’s Main Event on July 18 at Madison Square Garden. Valkyria defeated her and continued the assault afterward, driving her into the steel steps.
The biggest obstacle to a return, however, remains her contract status. Dave Meltzer recently noted on Wrestling Observer Radio that Bayley had not yet signed a new deal with WWE.
“When she signs a contract, I’m sure she’ll be back on TV.”
Bayley has also fueled AEW speculation by posting a video of herself training with Mercedes Moné, set to the song “All In” with the caption “all or nothing, baby.” The post reportedly drew negative attention from some people backstage in WWE.