SummerSlam Showdown With Bayley
Starting off, WWE needs to capitalize on more than just the heel turn itself – they need to maximize the story building between Valkyria and Bayley. It’s worth noting that this year’s two-night SummerSlam card is currently expected to feature up to 14 matches. With a card that size, a proper build should easily secure a high-profile showdown between these former friends. The real importance lies in how WWE executes that story.
Part of Valkyria’s motive for getting on the SummerSlam card is redeeming what happened at last year’s event. During her match with Becky Lynch, she suffered an awkward mishap when a zip tie Lynch applied came undone, leaving her in the uncomfortable position of trying to secure it back in place.
Many fans point to that exact moment as the catalyst for Valkyria’s downward trend, feeling as though her momentum completely stalled afterward. She can weaponize this very point in her new heel persona, venting about how she went from a top star to a complete afterthought because of one unfortunate night.
Next, WWE needs to add a special stipulation to this match to inject some brutality into the showdown, preferably making it a Street Fight. This environment will allow not only Bayley to tap into her darker side, but more importantly, it will force Valkyria to unleash this sinister new version of herself fully. Crucially, Lyra must win this matchup in the end to properly propel her character in the right direction.
Win Women’s Money in the Bank
A few months ago, we pitched the idea of Chelsea Green winning the Women’s Money in the Bank match. However, given that Green now appears locked into a program with Tiffany Stratton, those creative plans may no longer be on the table.
An incredible alternative would be having Valkyria capture the briefcase instead. Just last year, we saw Naomi capitalize on a fresh heel turn to win the ladder match before cashing in at Evolution during the main event between IYO SKY and Rhea Ripley. WWE hit the jackpot with that move, and they can absolutely do the same here with Valkyria.
By having her win the Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match and ultimately become a World Champion, WWE would signal to fans that they have both a clear plan and a vested interest in Lyra Valkyria, not just for the present, but more importantly, for the future.
WWE turning Lyra Valkyria heel for the first time in her career is precisely what she, and the audience, needed. Her babyface character had run its course, and despite an electric start on the main roster, she spent the last year playing a supporting role to Bayley in their tag team alliance.
Having wrestled in only a handful of singles matches since her disastrous loss to Becky Lynch at SummerSlam, she was long overdue for a spark. The wings of the “Bird Lady” are clipped, and a far more dangerous predator has taken her place. WWE has a golden opportunity in front of it, and it’s time to let the dark era of Lyra Valkyria soar.
