Io Shirai has become an NXT veteran during her time with WWE where she has held the NXT Women’s Championship for an impressive 304-days. More recently she was one-half of the NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions and she is set to face the team that defeated her for the gold at this weekend’s WarGames match. But what would she say about moving to RAW or SmackDown?
Ahead of this upcoming match, which Shirai has become a regular in, she spoke with Sports Illustrated. During that interview, the Joshi Judas spoke on the idea of moving to the main roster. She confirms that she would be open to moving to either RAW or SmackDown and even has a few names in mind on who she would love to face.
“Of course, I would be open to a move to SmackDown or Raw. 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 her. If it is a title match, even better.”
Shirai had a one-on-one match against Banks during the 2020 NXT Great American Bash where she picked up the win after an assist from Asuka.
Shirai also spoke on the newer NXT 2.0 idea as she has been enjoying the new talent she has been surrounded by.
“Since NXT 2.0 debuted, the number of new stars has increased which I have found very fun and exciting. Regarding Shawn [Michaels], I do still work with and get advice from him which is always extremely helpful.”
Sports Illustrated asked what are Shirai’s plans after WarGames and if Mandy Rose and the NXT Women’s Title is in her sights.
“As long as I am here, my goal will always be the NXT women’s title regardless of my opponent. The title is proof that you are at the pinnacle of your craft and it validates everything we do.”
For the entire interview with SI you can click here.
Check back in with Diva Dirt for a Discussion Post this Sunday, Dec. 5 for NXT’s WarGames.
