Carmella is excited about the changes fans have been seeing on WWE SmackDown in recent weeks, specifically regarding the brand’s women’s division.
From newcomers like Shotzi Blackheart and Tegan Nox to a familiar face like Zelina Vega, who came back after she was released last year, the blue brand has quickly received an injection of talent.
In an interview with Scott Fishman of TV Insider, Carmella explained why it’s a good time for this shakeup, as it creates the opportunity to offer fresh matches and build new stars.
“I think it’s a perfect time,” said Carmella. “We need to switch it up a little bit. It’s been a while since the draft. It’s good to change up the landscape and give women new opportunities: have an opportunity for new matchups, established names helping these new girls come into the roster and do some cool different storylines. I know when I came on, the girls were so welcoming and so kind. I think it’s important to pay that forward. We had such good camaraderie in our locker room. I’m grateful for that.”
As buzzworthy as these additions have been, SmackDown lost perhaps its most established female star when Bayley suffered an injury in a freak accident earlier this month. The company has looked to Carmella to step up in her absence, as the former Money in the Bank winner is about to challenge for the SmackDown Women’s Championship for the second time in two weeks on Friday night. In the interview, Carmella stated that she feels grateful for this opportunity and noted how it reflects on her work ethic.
“It’s flattering,” said Carmella. “It makes me feel my hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed. When things get put on me last minute, whatever. I want them to know I can rise to the occasion. It was so unfortunate what happened to Bayley. I feel awful and hope she comes back soon. All I’ve ever needed was an opportunity here. Remind the powers that be that I’m here. I play ball, I do what is asked of me, and go above and beyond. I do that in all aspects of my life, not only in WWE.”
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