Lyra Valkyria defeated Dakota Kai on WWE RAW to become the first-ever Women’s Intercontinental Champion. The match marked the culmination of the championship tournament that started in late 2023.
Valkyria secured her victory after executing the Nightwing finisher, adding another milestone to her career achievements. Her path to the championship included victories over Zelina Vega and Ivy Nile in the earlier rounds, followed by a win against IYO SKY in the semifinals.
Championship Tournament Journey
The tournament established a new championship tier in WWE’s women’s division, with competitors from both RAW and SmackDown vying for the historic title. Valkyria’s technical prowess proved decisive throughout the tournament, particularly in her semifinal clash with IYO SKY.
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This championship victory marks Valkyria’s first singles title since moving to WWE’s main roster, building upon her previous reign as NXT Women’s Champion.
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Becky Lynch attended the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Miami Heat basketball game at the Crypto Arena alongside Seth Rollins. This marks Lynch’s first notable public appearance since losing the Women’s World Championship to Liv Morgan in May 2024.
Despite her extended absence from television, WWE continues to feature Lynch in promotional content. The company included her in marketing materials for WWE RAW’s Netflix debut, sparking discussion about a potential return.
CM Punk’s recent references to Lynch during his rivalry with Rollins further fueled speculation about her comeback.
Potential Return Plans Could Include Lyra Valkyria Rivalry
Former WWE writer Vince Russo suggested that Lynch’s return might involve a storyline with new Women’s Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria. The 28-year-old star captured the inaugural title by defeating Dakota Kai on RAW.
Valkyria previously credited Lynch as a mentor figure in her wrestling career. Russo shared his perspective on a potential angle during Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW.
I think this is their opening to bring Becky back. People love Becky, bro. It would be an uphill battle to turn her. I would have Valkyria assume Becky’s role and she replaces Becky and she’s the pride of her country. I would go down that road
The match showcased both competitors’ abilities before Valkyria secured the historic win. Following her victory, she spoke with Jackie Redmond on RAW Exclusive about achieving this landmark moment.
I did it. I did that. I got drafted to Monday Night RAW; I worked my way through an entire tournament of women. I am the first-ever [Women’s Intercontinental Champion]. I have dreamed about making a moment like this; carving out of my own little piece of history. There’s only ever one first-ever. My name is now in the history books. I’m the Women’s Intercontinental Champion.
Potential plans for new champion
The title win could lead to a significant storyline development. Former WWE writer Vince Russo suggests Valkyria’s championship victory might set up a program with Becky Lynch upon her return, possibly involving a heel turn for the new champion.
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The scenario would build on their existing mentor-student dynamic, with Valkyria potentially stepping into Lynch’s former role as Ireland’s top representative in WWE.
Valkyria made history by becoming the inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion after defeating Dakota Kai. The 28-year-old star has previously acknowledged Lynch as a mentor figure in her career.
Russo shared his perspective on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Legion of RAW:
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I think this is their opening to bring Becky back. People love Becky, bro. It would be an uphill battle to turn her. I would have Valkyria assume Becky’s role and she replaces Becky and she’s the pride of her country. I would go down that road.
Lynch’s contract status with WWE
Reports from Fightful indicate Lynch has signed a new WWE contract, though terms remain undisclosed. Lynch’s previous agreement expired in June, with both parties planning to reach a new deal upon her return.
Lynch last competed in May 2023, losing a Steel Cage match to Liv Morgan. While specific return plans and WrestleMania involvement remain unconfirmed, she’s expected to factor into WWE’s upcoming major events.