Report: Backstage News On WWE's Natalya Being Booked For NWA Crockett Cup

WWE’s latest venture into working with outside promotions has led to former WWE Women’s World Champion Natalya being announced as a participant in the NWA Crockett Cup. 

NWA’s press release stated the following on Natalya’s participation;

"We are so pleased and proud that Natalya will be making her NWA debut on May 17 in Philly and our eternal thanks to WWE for their support on this historic night," said Corgan.

“Philadelphia is an ideal location for the Crockett Cup, recognised as one of the most anticipated and competitive events in the NWA calendar,” said Joe Galli, NWA’s Chief Operations Officer.

“Following the enthusiastic response to our sold-out anniversary celebration there last August, we aimed to enhance the experience for fans at the 2300 Arena. The inclusion of WWE’s Natalya in this year’s Cup adds a noteworthy element to our return to Philadelphia and we are excited to see who she will face from the NWA roster,” Galli continued.

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter has revealed some details as to how and why this came together. It is stated that Natalya and Billy Corgan are close personal friends, with Natalya previously attending his shows. Natalya personally approached and asked WWE about competing due to the company’s ongoing allowance of talent working elsewhere, and they sanctioned her to compete. Natalya signed a new deal with WWE in the summer of 2024.

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