Update: Bianca Belair’s WWE Comeback Still Months Away Following Injury Setback
It’s been over half a year since Bianca Belair last stepped into a WWE ring — and it looks like fans will have to wait just a bit longer to see the E-S-T of WWE back in action.
Belair, who suffered a broken finger at WrestleMania 41, has been sidelined far longer than originally anticipated. What was initially expected to be a minor injury has turned into a months-long recovery process, and now new reports suggest her comeback might not happen until early next year.
WWE Hoping for Early 2026 Return
According to BodySlam.net, WWE officials are preparing for Bianca’s absence to extend through the remainder of 2025:
“Sources indicate to Bodyslam that Belair’s recovery has been rough, but there is a belief within the company that she will be returning in the early stages of 2026. WWE is hopeful for the current proposed timeline, with the potential of a return earlier than expected.”
Earlier reports from The Wrestling Observer noted that WWE’s medical team has been cautious about clearing Belair, as her finger injury has taken longer than expected to properly heal.
Belair’s only major on-screen appearance since WrestleMania was serving as the special guest referee for Naomi vs. Jade Cargill at WWE Evolution in July — a fitting cameo given her real-life friendship and on-screen history with both women.
The Injury That Changed Everything
The injury occurred during Belair’s Triple Threat Match against Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY at WrestleMania 41 — a match many fans and critics hailed as one of the best of the entire weekend.
Per Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp, Belair’s injury was more serious than anyone initially thought:
“Bianca Belair’s specific injury was a break at the joint on the triple German suplex at WrestleMania. She initially thought she broke all of her fingers. It swelled up big time backstage, to the point to where people were coming to look at it.”
What seemed like a routine fracture turned out to involve a joint break — one notoriously difficult to heal without risking long-term hand mobility issues.
Creative Plans Put on Hold
Many fans expected Belair to return by summer, especially with Jade Cargill capturing the WWE Women’s Championship at Saturday Night’s Main Event just this past weekend. The long-awaited Bianca vs. Jade showdown — a dream match in the making — will have to wait a bit longer.
Insiders suggest WWE creative still views Belair as a “tentpole figure” of the women’s division and could be saving her return for a marquee moment — potentially the 2026 Royal Rumble.
If her recovery stays on track, the EST could make a triumphant comeback just in time for WrestleMania season, setting up a high-stakes collision with her former ally turned champion, Jade Cargill.
Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
Sources inside WWE describe Bianca’s recovery as “frustrating but steady.” Medical staff have reportedly opted for a conservative rehab plan, given her heavy reliance on athleticism and grip strength for her signature moves — especially the K.O.D.
Creative plans for Bianca’s eventual return are said to be “locked in pencil,” with WWE leaving the door open for a surprise return if her recovery speeds up. There’s also internal discussion about featuring her in Royal Rumble promotional material, whether or not she’s cleared to compete by then.
For now, fans can rest assured that when Belair does return — it’ll be to a hero’s welcome. Few stars have her combination of charisma, athleticism, and crossover appeal. The EST’s comeback will be one of WWE’s most anticipated moments of 2026.
