Thekla made an unexpected appearance on AEW Dynamite by launching an attack on Jamie Hayter. Earlier this month, Thekla reportedly signed a contract with AEW, concluding her four-year stint with World Wonder Ring Stardom in April. Her departure from Stardom followed a loss to Sayaka Clara on April 27, after which she attacked the promotion’s president and other officials, turning the crowd against her.
Meanwhile, another former Stardom star, Hayter, appeared on Dynamite’s interview segment to discuss her recent losses in the Mercedes Monn and Owen Hart Cup finals. However, before she could reveal her next move, the lights went out and when they returned, Thekla, dubbed the “Toxic Spider,” was seen assaulting her.
Thekla began her wrestling career in Vienna’s underground wrestling scene in 2017 and debuted in the German independent circuit in 2018 before moving to Japan. Between 2019 and 2021, she wrestled in Ice Ribbon, a promotion known for AEW women’s champions such as Ryo Mizunami and Hikaru Shida, and later joined the Donna Del Mondo faction with Giulia. She captured both the Stardom Goddess of Stardom Championship and the Artist of Stardom Championship titles during her time there.
Following her departure from Stardom in April, reports indicated that both WWE and AEW showed interest in signing her as she transitioned to the American wrestling scene.
Fan Take: Thekla’s surprise debut adds fresh excitement and talent to AEW’s women’s division, promising intense rivalries and dynamic matches. For AEW fans, her arrival signals the company’s commitment to expanding its roster with top international stars, which could elevate the sport’s global appeal and competitiveness.