Backstage details behind Saraya fka Paige’s departure from AEW revealed

Backstage details finally revealed behind the former AEW Women's Champion Saraya Bevis's exit from the Jacksonville-based company.

Backstage details behind Saraya fka Paige’s departure from AEW revealed

Saraya Bevis [via AEW]

Popular AEW wrestler Saraya Bevis has surprised the wrestling world by departing from the company. She announced her departure on the first episode of her new podcast, Rulebreakers With Saraya. Now, backstage details regarding her exit from AEW have been revealed.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Saraya reportedly requested her release, despite her contract running until September 2025. On her podcast, she confirmed that she had parted ways with the company. The former AEW Women’s Champion assured fans that the split was amicable, with no hard feelings.

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Former WWE star Paige stated that her departure was mainly due to not being involved in major storylines. She had a respectable run in AEW and won the AEW Women’s Championship just a year after debuting in 2022. The 32-year-old defeated Britt Baker, Hikaru Shida, and Toni Storm at AEW All In London in 2023 to claim the title.

Reflecting on her WWE career, she made a strong impact in 2014 by winning the NXT Women’s Championship at just 21 years old. She also defeated AJ Lee in her main roster debut on Raw, becoming a double champion. However, a neck injury forced her to retire in 2018, marking a major setback in her career. The Anti-Diva later returned as an authority figure before leaving the company in 2022.

Saraya Bevis talked about the mention of Drew McIntyre in her new book

Recently, the 32-year-old wrestler released her memoir, Hell in Boots: Clawing My Way Through Nine Lives. The book explores her wrestling journey, personal struggles, family issues, and other challenges she has faced. Bevis also discussed mentioning Drew McIntyre in her book.

Drew McIntyre and Saraya Bevis
Drew McIntyre and Saraya Bevis [via WWE]

She took to X and thanked him for saving her from a dangerous threat at an independent wrestling event when she was just 14 years old. Responding to a fan’s comment about her journey, Bevis stated that The Scottish Warrior was not just a great friend but a great human being as well.

For context @DMcIntyreWWE
saved me from not a good person when I was 14 years old, helluva human. Helluva friend. ❤️

Saraya Bevis on X

McIntyre had high praise for Bevis, having closely followed her journey. The former WWE Champion said he was proud of her not just as a wrestler but also as a person. He acknowledged the many challenges she had faced but admired her resilience, stating that she was anything but ordinary.

Brie Bella left an emotional note on a review page for Saraya Bevis’ new book

Saraya Bevis‘ new book has inspired many, with several stars showing their support. McIntyre and Brie Bella were among those who praised her. Despite their past rivalry in the ring, the WWE Hall of Famer had only kind words for her.

Brie Bella and Saraya Bevis
Brie Bella and Saraya Bevis [via WWE and The Sportster ]

After the book’s release, Brie left a review on McNallyRobinson.com, sharing her thoughts on Bevis’ journey. She described it as inspiring both inside and outside the ring. The former WWE Divas Champion also praised her determination and relentless work ethic.

Brie Bella's review
Brie Bella’s review [via McNallyRobinson.com]

Brie expressed her gratitude for witnessing Bevis’ growth both as a person and as a superstar. She was confident that her emotional journey would bring many fans to tears. Hell in Boots: Clawing My Way Through Nine Lives was released on March 25 and is 256 pages long. Fans worldwide can pre-order it on SimonAndSchuster.com.

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