Bayley's story heading into WrestleMania 40 is one of the best going in wrestling

There’s a lot to look forward to as WrestleMania 40 approaches. All eyes seem to be fixated on the angle involving Roman Reigns, The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and apparently Seth Rollins. While that makes sense, pay close attention to what is going on with Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Damage CTRL. This angle is shaping up to be not only the best story in women’s wrestling, but perhaps in wrestling all along.

Bayley’s WWE character arc continues to amaze. She went from the loveable hugger who frequently was manipulated by her friends for their own success, to the diabolical heel that found herself doing that to everyone around her. When she returned from injury with Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky by her side, there were a lot of questions about where it would go. Would this be the moment that would see Bayley finally elevated as the face of women’s wrestling in the division?

That wasn’t meant to be that time around. Bayley’s position was once again used to elevate those around her, namely Bianca Belair and Sky when she grabbed her first singles title on the main roster. Bayley was the favorite heading into the Royal Rumble, but there was still a little apprehension as to whether WWE would put their chips behind the cult superstar. Twenty-nine other competitors later and here she is, heading into WrestleMania with her first big singles match on the horizon.

Each week, SmackDown adds a new layer to the story. At first, it seemed like Kai was going to join Asuka, Kairi Sane, and Sky – potentially serving as their vocal supporter. There’s still no clear indication if Kai is ready to return from her knee injury. Her last match was in May of 2023 and there’s no telling how her recovery is going to this point. Still, WWE is doing an excellent job relaying the emotion in this angle. Will Bayley open herself up to trust another woman with such a big career moment coming? Is Kai simply playing Bayley just like others have done in the past? If Damage CTRL is seriously gunning for Kai, will Bayley leave her out on her island?

These are the types of questions that keep fans tuning in for major angles. The weekly ratings for SmackDown prove that it’s working. Everyone may say that it’s the men’s main event angle pulling in the numbers, but the women were doing it even when the four men mentioned in the top story weren't on the show. Bayley has shown she can move numbers in the past and this is yet another example of her being a piece of the equation to do it again.

Bayley’s expected to pick up the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40. It will be a moment that has been long needed to make this chapter of her story complete. Where will it go from here? There’s no answer at this time, but it is certainly one that will keep the viewer’s attention for a long time.