Former WWE NXT Women's Champion Shayna Baszler has returned to WWE, but this time she will be seen in a new and different role.
Sports News: A new beginning is happening in WWE, this time outside the ring! Former NXT Women's Champion Shayna Baszler has returned to WWE in a new role. This time she will not be a fighter, but will take on the responsibility of a producer. Baszler's return, who was one of several wrestlers released in May 2025, came as no surprise to WWE fans.
New innings begin after release from WWE
A few months ago, WWE released a large number of wrestlers from the main roster and NXT, including names like Braun Strowman, Dakota Kai, Gigi Dolin, and Cora Jade. One of these names was Shayna Baszler. She had renewed her contract with the company in 2024 itself, so her release was surprising to fans and industry experts. But now WWE has included her in its system again with a new responsibility - as a producer.
Baszler seen in the role of producer in NXT episode
According to BodySlam.net reporter Corey Hayes, Shayna Baszler was recently spotted backstage during an episode of NXT. She participated not just as a spectator, but as a producer for the 'Kelani Jordan vs. Lani Reed' match. She was seen with experienced show producer Chris Girard, and it is believed that she was involved with him in the planning and production of the entire show. This makes it clear that Shayna is now interested in handling background roles in WWE and has become a part of the creative team.
Return in the midst of a Non-Compete Clause
An interesting fact is that Shayna Baszler has returned to WWE before the end of her Non-Compete Clause. Generally, released wrestlers are not allowed to participate in any other promotion or work for a few months, but Baszler's return does not violate the rules due to her internal role.
Her last on-screen appearance was on the April 11, 2025 episode of SmackDown, when she was part of the "Pure Fusion Collective" group with Zoey Stark and Sonya Deville.
Baszler remained active outside WWE
Even after being released from WWE, Shayna Baszler kept herself active. She:
- Regularly streamed on Twitch
- Taught Jiu-Jitsu at Rudos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym in Florida
- Maintained engagement with fans and continued her fitness and training
- These activities further strengthened her personality and now proved suitable for her new role in WWE.
What does this say about WWE's strategy?
This move by WWE indicates that the company not only focuses on in-ring talent, but also gives a new direction to those wrestlers who can contribute at the level of experience, vision, and strategy. The producer of an experienced wrestler like Shayna Baszler demonstrates that WWE is investing more deeply in the development of its women's team.
