After an absence of more than a year, signs are pointing toward the imminent return of Kiana James to WWE programming. The strongest indication of her comeback came on July 15, when James was seen backstage during Evolution in Atlanta, Georgia.
Her presence at the major event confirms recent reports about her status and suggests she is medically cleared, or very close to it, following knee surgery. James has been sidelined since suffering a significant injury during a match on WWE RAW on June 17, 2024, which cut her initial main roster run short.
On the Fightful Select Q&A Show, Sean Ross Sapp provided further context on her recent movements, noting she was also present for a SmackDown taping in Lexington. He offered an analysis of why she has been kept off-screen despite being ready.
“Update on Kiana James — I had heard over a month ago she was either cleared or nearing clearance. She was backstage at the Lexington SmackDown show that I attended, and she was also backstage at Evolution. It would appear to me that they at least have something planned for her since they didn’t include her in that battle royal.”
This suggests that WWE officials are holding James for a more significant reintroduction rather than a simple appearance in a multi-person match. Internally, James is reportedly still highly regarded for her work ethic and on-screen presence, with her injury viewed as having stalled, but not derailed, her potential.
While no official return date has been announced, her return is now expected in the coming weeks. The timing aligns with the build toward SummerSlam, positioning her to make an immediate impact on the RAW women’s division.