In the realm of professional wrestling, the landscape is constantly shifting, and nowhere is this more evident than in the WWE. Triple H has been at the forefront of reshaping the dynamics of RAW and SmackDown as we approach WrestleMania 40. A notable development in this reshuffling is Bayley’s new feud with her former Damage CTRL stablemates. This storyline twist has sparked speculation that Dakota Kai might also be turning babyface, potentially aligning with Bayley as her new ally.
Bayley’s journey with Damage CTRL began in 2022 when she formed the group with Dakota Kai and IYO SKY, making a memorable debut at SummerSlam. The faction enjoyed a successful run, later expanding to include Asuka and Kairi Sane. However, the cohesion within the group began to falter, leading to a split where Bayley found herself at odds with the other members. Despite the tension, Dakota Kai chose to stand by Bayley, hinting at her own face turn which could be solidified on the upcoming episode of SmackDown.
The speculation around Dakota Kai’s allegiance will be put to the test in a tag team match on WWE SmackDown, where she is set to partner with The Role Model against The Kabuki Warriors. This match is particularly significant for Dakota Kai as it marks her return to the ring following an ACL injury sustained in May 2023 on RAW. While she has been a presence on WWE programming, her physical participation has been on hold, making her in-ring comeback highly anticipated by fans.
Dakota Kai’s loyalty to Bayley was on full display during the February 9, 2024 episode of SmackDown, where she defended Bayley against an attack from Damage CTRL. This act of allegiance was a stark contrast to the reactions of other members like SKY, who seemed indifferent to Bayley’s 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble victory. Dakota Kai, on the other hand, expressed her emotional connection to Bayley, acknowledging the opportunity given to her by The Role Model during her previous release from WWE.
As the WWE Universe tunes in to SmackDown, they can expect not only the pivotal tag team match but also other exciting events. A Street Fight between Carlito and Santos Escobar is on the card, and appearances by The Rock and Cody Rhodes are scheduled in Arizona. With the stage set for a night of high-stakes drama, all eyes will be on whether Bayley and Dakota Kai’s newfound alliance can triumph over their former tag team partners.
