What Is Going On With Asuka?

Asuka is taking an extended absence from WWE to return to Japan and handle an undisclosed family matter, according to a new PWInsider report. “The Empress of Tomorrow” appeared at Monday’s WWE Raw, embraced IYO SKY backstage, told her “See you later,” and then exited the building. The visual confirmed what many had suspected coming out of Backlash 2026 — Asuka is stepping away from her full-time WWE schedule, even though she remains under contract with the company.

Asuka Returns To Japan For Extended Period

According to PWInsider, the word making the rounds within WWE is that Asuka plans to return to Japan for an extended period of time to deal with the undisclosed family matter. The report also notes she remains signed with WWE but will be taking an extended absence. Importantly, the report indicates her absence and step-away from the road appears unrelated to the recent talent releases or pay cut conversations that have affected other WWE performers. That distinction matters because it puts her situation in a different category from talents like The New Day, who left over contract disputes.

Asuka WWE Backlash 2026 Sendoff With IYO SKY

The Asuka storyline with IYO SKY came to an emotional end at WWE Backlash 2026, with SKY scoring the victory and the two embracing in the ring after the match. Notably, Asuka’s former tag team partner Kairi Sane was among the recent WWE releases, even though Sane was an important piece of the SKY vs. Asuka storyline that played out across the spring. With Sane gone and Asuka now stepping away on her own terms, that chapter of the women’s division appears closed. When and how Asuka returns to full-time competition remains an open question — but the door is clearly being left open by both sides.