SmakDown star Shotzi suffered a serious injury in her match on WWE NXT.
With the February 20th episode of NXT being taped ahead of time, taking place after the February 13th episode went off the air, Shotzi challenged NXT Women’s Lyra Valkyria for the title. Shotzi had defeated Valkyria in a tag team match at an NXT live event over the past weekend.
As reported by Fightful Select, Shotzi would hit her knee against the side of the ring while taking a fall to the outside, which was planned to be a routine spot to cut to an advert break. The match was stopped immediately as Shotzi could not continue and was helped to the back.
NXT sources noted that Shotzi was not able to put any weight on her knee and was clearly in a lot of pain. Backstage officials were very concerned for the welfare of the SmackDown star who was taken for medical evaluation.
With NXT running injury angles in the past, Fightful confirms that the injury was legitimate and was an accident, with there being no heat on either performer.
WWE NXT Title Match Changed
Having to adapt on the fly, NXT General Manager Ava announced that the title match would instead be an open challenge, which was answered by Lash Legend. Lyra Valkyria would go on to win the match and retain the championship. Many have complimented all performers for being able to adapt to a tough situation.
An update was provided on February 14th by SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis. Shotzi was originally set to face Tiffany Stratton on the February 16th episode of SmackDown in an Elimination Chamber qualifying match. With the unfortunate injury that took place to the SmackDown star, Alba Fyre will replace Shotzi in the SmackDown match.
@RealNickAldis has some BIG announcements for this Friday’s #SmackDown 🚨 pic.twitter.com/yeXb412FD8
— WWE (@WWE) February 15, 2024
Features of Wrestling would like to wish Shotzi a full and speedy recovery.
Featured image: WWE
