Asuka's WWE Backstage Role Revealed - Reports

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In a recent development, Asuka, the celebrated Grand Slam Champion, has been positioned as the leading antagonist (heel) on WWE SmackDown, per the 2023 draft and her latest actions. This strategic move comes after her noticeable absence from the screen post-WrestleMania 39 and a surprising appearance on last week's Friday Night SmackDown.

Fans had high hopes for Asuka's victory over Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 39, but she did not succeed contrary to expectations. Following a month of conspicuous absence, Asuka was selected for the blue brand during the 2023 WWE Draft.

She unexpectedly returned last week on SmackDown, shocking viewers and RAW Women's Champion Bianca Belair by turning heel. She left Belair in excruciating pain with her infamous mist move.

Asuka Tops SmackDown Heel List

Post her heel turn, PW Mania reported that Asuka's actions against The EST have propelled her to the top of the heel list for the blue brand.

Other notable Friday Nights heels include Bayley, Lacey Evans, Scarlett, B-Fab, and Tamina. Bianca Belair's victory over Asuka at WrestleMania 39 led to a poignant social media post by the latter. Belair has successfully retained the RAW Women's Championship, stretching her reign to an impressive 400 days.

She had initially claimed the title by defeating Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 38 in 2022 and was subsequently picked by SmackDown in the current year's draft. Despite her formidable skills, Asuka's record at WrestleMania stands at 0-5 following her loss to Bianca Belair.

Recently, she posted a cryptic message on social media, hinting at a potential departure from WWE and a return to Japan. She also called on her fans to channel their anger and join her in stirring chaos in what she described as a "boring" Women's Division.

I might as well go back to Japan… But I bet a lot of you guys my friends will miss me when I leave WWE?
Now I need the power of your anger. Let's bring chaos to the boring Women's Division with me💩
Let's bring chaos to the Women's Division, let's bring chaos to the WWE!

https://t.co/nr8pJAqySO pic.twitter.com/K7itr2RBuw — ASUKA / 明日華 (@WWEAsuka) April 3, 2023

The intriguing dynamics between The EST and The Empress of Tomorrow have set the stage for a potential title rematch at the Night of Champions event, which WWE fans worldwide would eagerly anticipate.