Willow Nightingale may be one of the most important performers on the AEW roster. She's been a main character in much of the workings of the women's division since joining the company, and she's become a fan favorite along the way. On Wednesday, May 21, Nightingale confirmed aFightful Selectreport that she'd signed a new deal with the company, completely avoiding free agency.
"That is true, yes. I am happy where I am," Nightingale said toThe Takedown of Sports Illustrated. "I think there is so much left ahead for me to do in AEW, things that I want to accomplish. But also, I'm just really excited to be a part of something when its fresh and new and, like, you know, I think we're past the years of finding our footing."
The women's division could revolve around Willow Nightingale
AEW has several standouts on the women's roster. Ladies like Mercedes Mone and Toni Storm are leading the way, with a highly anticipated match expected to go down around the corner. Mina Shirakawa is a new addition and fans are hopingMariah Mayremains with the company. And don't forget about your "Forever Champion," ATHENA.
Willow Nightingale deserves to be mentioned along with that group. The moment her music hits, business picks up - even as she wears the biggest smile on her face. She's not smiling so much right now as a part of the AEW team fighting back against The Deathriders, all the while working through her issues with Kris Statlander. But she's still the type of performer who truly brings smiles to viewers faces whenever she's on television. Doesn't matter if she's waving at the fans or hitting someone with a huge Pounce.
AEW has used Nightingale as a transitional champion in the past, but it is time she gets her own run as an established champion. She held the NJPW Strong title when Mone was injured during their match, a match Mone was supposed to win. That led to her being the TBS Champion when Mone joined AEW, with Nightingale dropping that title to her as well. Two championship reigns are better than none, but there's more value in being booked as the conquering and defending champion, than an individual used to get the belt from one angle to the next.
Willow Nightingale is a gem in the professional wrestling industry. She looks the part, fans love her, and she delivers with everything put in front of her. Now that she's re-signed with the company, it is time for her to get some time as the central performer in the women's division.