Former AEW Women's World Champion's return officially announced
A former AEW Women's World Champion, who hasn't been seen in the promotion since January 2024, is finally making her return next week. The star's comeback was announced tonight.
The name being discussed is Hikaru Shida. She is a three-time Women's World Champion and is tied with Toni Storm for the most number of reigns. Shida was last wrestled on American soil in April 2024, as she unsuccessfully challenged Athena for the ROH Women's World Title. However, she has also not been seen in AEW since her match against Queen Aminata in January.
Recent reports have indicated that creative plans for the Japanese star are in motion. Tonight, Hikaru Shida's return match was announced on Collision. It was revealed that she will take on Deonna Purrazzo next week as part of the quarterfinals of the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament.
On X/Twitter, the 36-year-old reacted to the announcement, making a bold claim that she would emerge as the victor.
"See me win next week AEW #AEWCollision," Shida tweeted.
With the tournament winner set to earn a Women's World Title shot at All In 2024, Shida will be aiming to become a four-time champion in August.
What other matches are taking place in the women's bracket of AEW's Owen Hart Foundation Tournament?
Among the four quarterfinal matches, two have already taken place. Kris Statlander vs. Nyla Rose and Willow Nightingale vs. Serena Deeb took place earlier this week.
On Dynamite a few days ago, Kris Statlander defeated Nyla Rose. Meanwhile, Willow Nightingale emerged victorious over Serena Deeb on Rampage. Statlander and Nightingale will now have their grudge match in the next round of the tournament.
On the other side of the bracket, besides Hikaru Shida vs. Deonna Purrazzo being announced for Collision, Mariah May is set to lock horns with Saraya. There is no confirmation of when the match between the British stars will take place. However, they will share the ring next week on Dynamite in a trios contest.
The complete bracket can be seen below.
Willow Nightingale was the victor of last year's tournament, and it remains to be seen whether she can become a two-time winner. With several stars standing in her way, it may not be an easy task to secure the crown.