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Full Breakdown

Asuka Turns on Iyo Sky in Dramatic WWE Raw Heel Turn

9/23/2025, 11:28:01 AM

Main Event Highlights: Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka

The September 22, 2025, episode of WWE Monday Night Raw culminated in a significant heel turn involving Asuka, Rhea Ripley, and Iyo Sky. The main event featured a singles match between Rhea Ripley and Asuka, where Ripley secured victory via a roll-up pin after a chaotic sequence that included interference from Kairi Sane. The match showcased intense back-and-forth action, with Ripley capitalizing on an accidental collision between Asuka and Sane to clinch the win.

Post-Match Chaos: The Kabuki Warriors' Betrayal

Following the match, Asuka retaliated against Ripley by spraying her with green mist, leading to a post-match assault. Iyo Sky rushed to the ring to intervene, attempting to stop Asuka's attack on Ripley. However, in a shocking twist, Asuka turned on Sky, delivering a spinning backfist and ordering Sane to join in the assault. The segment concluded with Asuka and Sane standing over the fallen Ripley and Sky, solidifying Asuka's heel turn and the apparent dissolution of the Kabuki Warriors' alliance with Sky.

Background Context: Tensions and Alliances

The tension leading up to this dramatic turn had been building for weeks. Asuka had expressed frustration with Iyo Sky's friendship with Rhea Ripley, feeling overshadowed and protective of her former allies. Kairi Sane found herself caught in the middle, attempting to mediate between Asuka and Sky. This conflict came to a head during the main event, where Asuka's jealousy and aggression culminated in her betrayal of Sky.

Official Statements & Responses

WWE's social media accounts highlighted the shocking nature of Asuka's actions, stating, "Asuka and Kairi, what have you done? Rhea and IYO did NOT deserve this." This sentiment reflects the audience's surprise and disappointment at the turn of events, particularly given the history between the characters.

Criticism & Opposition

Some fans and analysts criticized Asuka's heel turn as a missed opportunity to develop a more nuanced storyline involving the three women. Instead of fostering a rivalry that could have showcased their talents, the abrupt betrayal left many questioning the direction of the women's division in WWE.

What's Next: Potential Matchups at Crown Jewel

Looking ahead, speculation suggests that a tag team match featuring Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky against Asuka and Kairi Sane may be booked for the upcoming Crown Jewel event in Perth, Australia, on October 11, 2025. This potential matchup could serve as a platform to further explore the dynamics between these characters and their evolving relationships.

Conclusion

The events of WWE Monday Night Raw on September 22 marked a pivotal moment in the women's division, with Asuka's heel turn reshaping the narrative landscape. As the story unfolds, fans will be keen to see how these developments impact the upcoming Crown Jewel event and the future of the characters involved.