WWE star could go to AEW due to possible frustration with how she has been used, Vince Russo says (Exclusive)
WWE is going through a great phase currently, but it is still always at risk of losing top stars. Vince Russo recently spoke about Natalya's status in the company and what could urge her to jump ship to AEW.
Various reports in recent weeks have confirmed that Natalya's WWE contract will end during the summer and that she has yet to decide on her next move. While re-signing with the company is an option, the speculation of a potential AEW move just can't be ignored, and the possibility was addressed in a recent episode of Sportskeeda Wrestling's Writing with Russo.
Vince Russo believed that the company hadn't utilized her well enough despite Natalya's long run in WWE and called them out for not showing her enough respect. Russo stated that Nattie might feel dissatisfied with her WWE tenure, which could entice her to join Tony Khan's AEW.
"Because she [Natalya] feels she didn't get her just in the WWE. Yeah, yeah, that's why she would want to go to AEW." [From 09:16 to 09:26]
According to Russo, despite the recent changes in WWE, Natalya might not be confident enough to continue her stay and expect to be booked better.
Vince Russo added that as Natalya has been around for a long time, she might know nothing ever changes within WWE.
"She knows things in the WWE will never change. She knows that," admitted the former WWE head writer. [From 09:28 to 09:40]
Vince Russo on why Natalya might reject a backstage WWE role
Natalya is one of the most experienced stars in the WWE who'd undoubtedly bring a lot of value in a backstage capacity.
Like her husband, TJ Wilson, Natalya could become an agent/producer while helping train up-and-coming talents at the Performance Center, another responsibility that could suit her skillset.
Vince Russo, however, noted that Natalya's desire to continue being an active wrestler could lead to her turning down any possible offers from WWE regarding transitioning to a behind-the-scenes job. Russo also highlighted that Natalya's age wasn't a concern considering the current landscape of wrestling:
"Not if she still wants to work. Yeah, and I think she is young enough to still be working. I think that's what she wants to do. [Dr. Chris Featherstone mentions she is 42 years old], Yeah, but still. I mean, god, that's how old Damian Priest is, no?" [From 8:48 onwards]
AEW is gradually building a strong women's division. It would be interesting to see whether Tony Khan tries to add the highly respected Natalya to his ever-growing roster.
Also watch:
Please credit Sportskeeda Wrestling's Writing with Russo and embed the video if the quotes from the article are used.