Kris Statlander is very aware that she now has a lot to live up to in AEW following Jade Cargill’s departure.
Cargill looked to be unbeatable in AEW as no one could figure out the formula to dethrone the first-ever TBS Champion. While many big names in wrestling such as Ruby Soho, Anthena and Taya Valkyrie all tried to defeat Cargill, the result was always the same. All of that changed at Double or Nothing 2023. Following Cargill defeating Valkyrie once again, the champion declared that she was not done and wanted another challenger. Statlander made a surprise return and shockingly defeated Cargill in under a minute to become the new champion.
Returning for one final bout in September to lose the rematch, Jade Cargill would then depart the promotion to sign with WWE. For Statlander, the TBS Champion was aware of the legacy that was left behind by the former champion.
Speaking with Denise Salcedo, Statlander revealed how much pressure there was to live up to the lofty expectations following Cargill’s sudden departure and wishes that the rivalry could have been extended:
“It was terrifying to try and fill the shoes of such a star, that first night that it happened when I first became the champion. It was so exciting to be back and be part of the roster and an active wrestler again, of course, but there is so much pressure that comes with being a champion, being a worthy champion, and you don’t realize it until you have the belt in your hands.
Once the belt is in your hands, the target is on your back and everyone has a much closer eye on you,” she said. “Being her last match, it felt bittersweet because I felt there was so much more I could have done with her. I feel like we really helped each other a lot and I’m just really proud I got to be the last match. I think it was a very fitting sendoff.”
Jade Cargill Addresses In-Ring Absence
Despite being a part of the WWE roster for nearly 2 months and making multiple onscreen appearances, the former TBS Champion is still yet to make her in-ring debut for the promotion. With fans frequently asking for a debut date, Jade Cargill commented on her lack of WWE in-ring time.
H/t to Fightful.