Backstage Update on Kairi Sane’s WWE Release Status Ahead of WWE Backlash 2026

As noted before, Kairi Sane was released from WWE last week as part of a larger batch of talent releases and departures. Sane recently denied rumors about her wanting to move back to Japan being one potential factor for her release from WWE.

The Wrestling Observer’s Bryan Alvarez reported that his sources stated that there is currently a belief within WWE that Sane could make an appearance at this Saturday’s Backlash 2026 event in Tampa, Florida. Those spoken to reportedly stated that the belief is Sane could make an appearance to finish out her storyline with IYO SKY and Asuka.

It was not stated if this would just be a one-off appearance or not for Sane.

“Within WWE, it’s felt there is a better than 50% chance that Kairi shows up at Backlash to at least finish off that storyline.”

SKY and Asuka are currently scheduled to be competing in a singles match against each other at Backlash 2026. Prior to her departure, Sane had been involved in the storyline between the two as a central figure revolving around Asuka’s bullying of her in recent months and SKY trying to persuade Sane to leave Asuka.