The Tank is rolling strong on the independent circuit, but Shotzi hasn’t completely ruled out a WWE comeback—with some serious strings attached. The former NXT standout recently laid out her terms for any potential return to Stamford, making it crystal clear that creative limbo is a non-starter.
WWE Return on the Table, But Only Under Right Circumstances
Speaking candidly on The Ariel Helwani Show, Shotzi addressed the elephant in the room regarding her WWE future. Her response reveals the real reason behind her departure frustrations and what it would take to bring her back to the company.
I mean, I would love, love to be back at WWE. I loved working there. I didn’t love not working there—you know what I’m saying? Like, it was only when I wasn’t being used that I was unhappy. But anytime I was being used—good time. Loved the locker room, loved like everyone I was working for. So yeah, that’s—that’s just it. I just don’t want to go back and not work.”
This statement cuts right to the heart of many wrestlers’ WWE experiences. Shotzi’s honesty about her time with the company paints a picture of someone who genuinely enjoyed the work environment but grew frustrated with creative inactivity.
The Real Issue: Creative Utilization Over Company Loyalty
What makes Shotzi’s comments particularly interesting is how they highlight a common WWE problem—talent sitting idle despite their capabilities. Her willingness to return isn’t about burning bridges or holding grudges; it’s about ensuring meaningful work.
The former tag team champion’s perspective shows maturity in understanding that WWE success isn’t just about being on the roster. It’s about having storylines, matches, and opportunities to connect with audiences.
Independent Success Creates Leverage
Since her WWE release, Shotzi has been making waves across the independent wrestling scene. This momentum gives her something many released WWE talents lack—genuine leverage in future negotiations.
Her approach differs from wrestlers who might jump at any WWE opportunity. Instead, she’s building value outside the company while keeping doors open for meaningful returns rather than desperate comebacks.
AEW Still in the Mix
The same interview saw Shotzi discuss potential AEW opportunities, indicating she’d choose Tony Khan’s promotion over TNA if forced to pick. However, she emphasized wanting to earn her next major contract rather than coasting on past WWE recognition.
This philosophy suggests Shotzi understands the current wrestling landscape rewards wrestlers who prove themselves across multiple platforms rather than relying solely on previous company credentials.
Setting a New Standard for WWE Returns
Shotzi’s conditional approach to a WWE return might signal a shift in how former talents view the company. Rather than treating WWE as the ultimate destination regardless of creative plans, she’s prioritizing active participation over passive roster spots.
Her stance could influence other wrestlers considering their own WWE futures—both current roster members and potential returnees. The message is clear: being on the roster means nothing without meaningful television time and storyline investment.
With WWE’s ever-expanding roster and AEW’s continued growth providing alternatives, will more wrestlers start demanding guaranteed creative commitments before signing? Shotzi’s approach might just be the blueprint for how savvy wrestlers navigate their next career moves in an increasingly competitive landscape.
