WWE’s Deep Concern Over Unexpected Mishap in Match Featuring Shotzi

Concerns Arise After WWE Star Injured in NXT Taping

This week’s NXT taping brought about significant backstage concern following an unexpected injury to a WWE star during the February 13 event. The incident occurred during a double-taping session, likely due to logistical considerations surrounding the upcoming Elimination Chamber event in Perth, Australia on February 24.

During the episode, an angle involving NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria and SmackDown’s Shotzi was set up, leading to a scheduled title match for the February 20 episode. However, the match took an unforeseen turn when Shotzi sustained a knee injury mere moments into the bout, prompting the cancellation of her scheduled appearance.

According to reports from Fightful Select, the injury was confirmed to be legitimate, dispelling initial doubts raised due to NXT’s recent use of staged injury angles. The incident reportedly occurred when Shotzi collided with the ring’s edge during a pivotal moment in the match, rendering her unable to continue.

WWE sources revealed that Shotzi experienced significant pain and was unable to bear weight on her injured knee, requiring assistance from the medical team to leave the ring area. Despite immediate medical attention, an official diagnosis of the injury is pending.

Backstage personnel expressed deep concern for Shotzi’s well-being following the incident, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. However, there appears to be no animosity towards either Valkyria or Shotzi, with the injury attributed to a “freak accident.”

In response to the injury, WWE hastily rearranged the match lineup, substituting another WWE star to fill Shotzi’s role in the bout.