Asuka and Mustafa Ali Return on Raw

Asuka and Mustafa Ali made their returns on Raw tonight after months off of TV.

Asuka

Asuka interrupted a Becky Lynch in-ring promo. As Lynch was talking about regaining the Raw Women’s title and saying that no one can stop her, Asuka’s music hit and she came out to a good reaction.

After dancing in the ring for a bit, she said “I will stop you because no one is ready for Asuka.” Lynch tried to attack her, but Asuka ducked and tried to kick Lynch, but Lynch escaped out of the ring and the two made no contact.

Asuka last wrestled in the 2021 Money in the Bank ladder match in July 2021. She had reportedly been out of action mostly due to a shoulder injury.

Mustafa Ali

Ali interrupted a Miz TV segment while The Miz was interviewing (Austin) Theory.

Ali came out and said that he wanted a United States Championship shot against Theory. Theory and Miz insulted him, with Miz saying “Do you still work here?” and Theory saying, “Aren’t you the guy who took his ball and went home?”

Ali said that Theory was “all biceps and no balls.” Ali and Miz exchanged more words and Theory said that he texted Vince McMahon, who made a match tonight between Ali and The Miz.

Ali defeated The Miz with a roll up as Miz was trying a figure four. After the match, as Ali was celebrating on the entrance ramp, he was suddenly attacked from behind by Tommaso Ciampa.

Ali last wrestled in October 2021. In January, he requested his release from WWE, saying, “I have a message that is much bigger than my dreams in pro wrestling. Despite my best efforts, I will not be able to deliver this message while working with WWE. Therefore, I am requesting my release from WWE.” However, his request was denied by WWE.

At the time of his release request, it was reported that he still has “years” left on his contract.