AEW fans may soon see the return of one of the company’s most beloved stars, Riho. The first-ever AEW Women’s World Champion has been absent from television since July 2024, following an injury sustained during a match against Lady Frost on AEW Collision. However, recent reports suggest her return to the ring could be on the horizon.
According to Fightful Select, Riho was spotted in Orlando, Florida, during AEW’s Worlds End pay-per-view on December 28, where she was reportedly training in the ring before the show. While there’s no confirmation that she has been medically cleared to compete, the news has sparked hope among fans eagerly awaiting her comeback. The report also hinted that a return to AEW programming is likely at some point in 2025, though the exact timeline remains uncertain.
Riho’s Storied AEW Career
Riho made history in 2019 as the inaugural AEW Women’s World Champion, defeating Nyla Rose on the debut episode of AEW Dynamite. Her reign lasted 133 days before Rose reclaimed the title in a hard-fought rematch. Unfortunately, Riho’s AEW career was disrupted shortly after due to travel restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing her from competing in the United States.
During her time away from AEW, Riho remained active in Japan, wrestling for notable promotions like STARDOM and DDT. She eventually returned to AEW in 2021 and has since split her time between the promotion and international bookings. Her 2024 hiatus was reportedly tied to the process of renewing her work visa, but her latest setback—a mid-match injury—has kept her out of action for several months.
What’s Next for Riho?
Riho’s return to training is a promising sign for AEW’s women’s division, which has felt the absence of the dynamic competitor. A trailblazer for the company, her mix of high-flying maneuvers and technical precision has made her a fan favorite, and her potential comeback in 2025 could inject fresh energy into the roster.
For now, fans will need to stay tuned for updates on Riho’s recovery and possible return. Whether she’s cleared for action sooner rather than later, it’s safe to say that the wrestling world is ready to welcome back the “Golden Idol” with open arms.
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