Full Breakdown
CJ Perry Announces Return to Professional Wrestling
1/10/2026, 7:23:52 AM
Return to the Independent Circuit
CJ Perry, formerly known as Lana in WWE, has officially announced her return to professional wrestling, focusing on the independent circuit starting in 2026. During an appearance on the "TMZ Inside The Ring" podcast, Perry expressed her excitement about re-entering the wrestling world after a hiatus to develop her personal brand. She emphasized her intention to primarily engage in managing talent and enhancing her microphone skills, while also remaining open to physical confrontations if necessary. “My goal is not to start wrestling, but if someone has an issue with me and I need to resolve some conflict in the ring, you better believe I’m gonna hit the ready,” she stated.
Influences and Training
Perry cited WWE Hall of Famer Paul Heyman as her primary influence, stating, “I want to be so sharp. I want to be so iconic. Paul Heyman is my favorite manager of all time. I’m always studying him and watching him.” To improve her verbal skills, she is enrolling in stand-up comedy classes, aiming to refine her performance abilities as she prepares to travel the country in search of new talent to manage.
Background and Recent Activities
Before her announcement, Perry had been relatively inactive in wrestling since 2023, when she briefly worked as a manager for All Elite Wrestling (AEW). She had previously been released from WWE in 2021 and took time away from the ring to focus on her personal endeavors. Her husband, Rusev (Miro), returned to WWE television in April 2025 and is set to open "Catch Academy," a wrestling school in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 1, 2026, which will include specialized training for children.
Official Statements & Responses
In her announcement, Perry highlighted her commitment to the independent wrestling scene, stating, “I’m going to start going to wrestling events and I’m going to start searching for the next super athlete.” This reflects her ambition to not only return to wrestling but also to contribute actively to its future by discovering and managing new talent.
Criticism & Opposition
While Perry's return has been met with enthusiasm from fans, some critics question her decision to focus on managing rather than wrestling, arguing that her previous in-ring performances were not as impactful as her managerial roles. However, Perry's readiness to engage physically if necessary suggests she is prepared to address any challenges that may arise.
What's Next
As Perry prepares for her return, she is set to debut her stand-up comedy show in Los Angeles on March 26, 2026, further showcasing her commitment to enhancing her performance skills. Fans and industry insiders will be watching closely as she embarks on this new chapter in her wrestling career.
