Bayley sends hilarious message after defeating 22-year veteran on WWE SmackDown
Former WWE Women's Champion Bayley picked up a big win over a 22-year veteran on Friday Night SmackDown. She mocked her opponent on social media after this week's blue brand show.
Candice LeRae began her professional wrestling career 22 years ago, in 2002, with the Empire Wrestling Federation (EWF). After gaining experience in promotions like Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, DDT Pro Wrestling, and others, The Poison Pixie made her WWE debut in 2017.
In her seven-year tenure with the Stamford-based promotion, LeRae has captured the NXT Women's Tag Team Championship and is the inaugural and current Women's Speed Champion.
During the November 8, 2024, episode of SmackDown, The Role Model faced off against Candice LeRae in a singles match. In a surprising twist, The Canadian Goddess faked an injury to deceive Bayley, but the latter outsmarted her opponent and secured a victory with a quick roll-up pin.
On X (fka Twitter), the former Damage CTRL leader took a jab at the 22-year veteran, implying that she had thoroughly studied LeRae's work over the years, which ultimately led to her picking up the win.
"I guess studying your work for over 15 years finally paid off tonight. Thanks@CandiceLeRae 😊😅," Bayley wrote.
Check out the former WWE Women's Champion's tweet below:
Bayley comments on a major turning point in her WWE career
Before her 2019 heel turn, Bayley was beloved for her 'Hugger' persona. The 35-year-old star recently discussed why she abandoned this character.
Speaking on The Rob Brown Show, The Role Model explained her decision to abandon her 'Hugger' persona, citing a need for change after feeling overwhelmed by its upbeat nature.
"There was a moment...before I went out that I was like, 'Oh my god.' I needed to move on," said Bayley.
At WrestleMania XL, the former Damage CTRL leader pinned IYO SKY to capture the WWE Women's Championship. However, she dropped the title to Nia Jax at SummerSlam 2024.
It remains to be seen whether Bayley will return to the world title scene or shift her focus to the newly introduced Women's United States Championship on SmackDown.