Io Shirai is one of the veteran competitors in WWE NXT 2.0’s women’s division. She had a remarble reign with the NXT Women’s Championship, as “The Genius of the Sky” held the title for 304 days before she lost the gold at WWE NXT TakeOver: Stand & Deliver.
Since then, fans have wondered whether the former champion will join stars like Becky Lynch, Sasha Banks and Charlotte Flair on the main roster anytime soon.
In an interview with Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, ahead of WWE NXT WarGames on December 5, Shirai stated that she would welcome a move to WWE RAW or SmackDown. She noted that this progression would present new opportunities, and she also specifically named a rematch with Sasha Banks as one of her goals. (The two women faced off at WWE NXT: Great American Bash 2020, and Shirai emerged victorious.)
“Of course, I would be open to a move to SmackDown or Raw,” said Shirai through a translator. The opportunity would present new goals and encounters different from what I have achieved and experienced in NXT. I would like a rematch with Sasha Banks as soon as possible. I also heard Bayley say she wanted to have a match with me and I would definitely relish my first confrontation with here. If it is a title match, even better.”
For now, Shirai remains focused on the NXT Women’s Championship, as she wants to regain her spot as the division’s top star.
“As long as I am here, my goal will always be the NXT women’s title regardless of my opponent,” said Shirai through a translator. “The title is proof that you are at the pinnacle of your craft and it validates everything we do.”
Time will tell what Shirai’s future holds, but many fans look forward to seeing her steal the show at WW NXT WarGames on Sunday.
RELATED: Io Shirai Issues Challenge For WarGames Match On 11/16 WWE NXT 2.0
