Asuka will appear on tonight's WWE Raw

The future of Asuka has been one of the most discussed topics this weekend after what happened at WWE Backlash. Her emotional reaction after her defeat against IYO SKY, as well as the messages of gratitude from her fellow wrestlers, suggested that "The Empress of Tomorrow" had put an end to her time in the company. However, it seems that will not be the case.

A recent report from Fightful Select states that Asuka will have an appearance on tonight's episode of Monday Night Raw. After that, the wrestler will take some time off. According to sources from the outlet, this break was already planned before the recent wave of layoffs, so it would not be in any way related to that. 

At the moment, it is unknown how long Asuka will be absent, as well as the reasons that have led her to make this decision. It is worth noting that outlets like Wrestling Observer and Fightful themselves have hinted that the Japanese wrestler will reduce her participation in the company's shows, which could mark the beginning of a "semi-retirement" phase. It is believed that her current contract with WWE expires in 2029.

WWE has not confirmed Asuka's presence on tonight's show, although it is expected that she will be involved in some kind of backstage segment with IYO SKY where an explanation will be given for her imminent absence from the company's television programming.