TNA Teases Debut Of Former SmackDown Talent (w/Video)

Xia Li looked set for big things in WWE when she first signed, although after failing to establish herself, she was let go last April. Yet, despite this setback, the Chinse talent is continuing to pursue a career in pro wrestling, having recently worked a handful of indie dates under the ring name Zhao Xia. And now, during this week’s episode of Impact, TNA has teased her debut via a vignette, which has also been shared on social media.

36-year-old Li broke into the business in 2017, having been scouted by WWE in her home country. Subsequently, she competed in the inaugural Mae Young Classic and, after eight months of additional training, began working on NXT house shows against names like Shayna Baszler, Rhea Ripley, and Aliyah. From there, she notably entered the 2019 women’s Royal Rumble match and, after proving herself as part of NXT, was called up to SmackDown due to the 2021 draft. Still, her time on the main roster was unremarkable, resulting in few fans being shocked when she was released.