What’s the story?
Lana wrestled at a. NXT Live Event last night in Tampa, Florida. She took on new NXT Superstar Ruby Riot and we also got a brief look at Lana’s new entrance which goes with her dancing gimmick.
In case you didn’t know...
With her husband Rusev out injured and recovering from surgery, Lana was announced as a new addition to SmackDown Live’s women’s division during the Superstar Shake-Up. We also got a vignette which made it seem like Lana is going to get some sort of babyface-dancing gimmick.
It has also been reported that WWE feel that Lana can become an alternative to the athletic women Superstars who are on WWE’s roster today and her gimmick is designed so she can stand out.
According to Wrestling Observer, WWE will also split up Rusev and Lana on air as of now which is another sign that she’s set for a babyface push.
The heart of the matter
Lana has been down in NXT improving her in-ring skills. With her SmackDown Live debut impending, Lana took on Ruby Riot at an NXT Live Event last night. She was accompanied to ring by the former Rosie Lottalove and was victorious over her opponent Ruby Riot.
What’s next?
We’re still waiting for Lana’s debut on SmackDown Live. It will be interesting to see whether MaryKate continues to be her valet on the main roster but it is unlikely since she hasn’t even made her NXT television debut yet.
Another interesting point to note will be how WWE keep Rusev and Lana apart in storyline after the “Bulgarian Brute” returns from injury.
Author’s take
We last saw Lana wrestle on WWE TV at the WrestleMania 32 pre-show in what was considered the “Total Divas” tag-team match. Lana did pretty well on the night and definitely looked better than Eva Marie. She has been working hard at her in-ring work and I see no reason why Lana can’t succeed in SmackDown Live’s thin women’s roster.
Send us news tips at [email protected]
