SmackDown Live General Manager Paige can’t compete inside a WWE ring. The 26-year-old has been medically suspended from ever competing for the professional wrestling juggernaut inside the ring again. She suffered a neck injury that could have serious ramifications on her longterm health if aggravated. For now, she retains a regular WWE TV role as General Manager of Tuesday nights.
Despite the disappointment of not being able to compete in the ring, Paige still holds out a bit of hope. This hope comes from seeing the amazing journey of current SDL star Daniel Bryan. Bryan was once in a very similar position to Paige. He was medically barred from competing inside the WWE ring as well. Up until earlier this year, he also served as SDL General Manager.
Upon Bryan’s resignation to return to full-time Superstar status, Paige was given the role. She spoke about being inspired by Bryan during a recent interview with TV Insider. Here’s what she had to say:
“His injury was a bit different, but he is still a superstar to me. Here is a guy who did not give up. It took three years since the last time he was in the ring. It gives me hope. I know it probably won’t happen for me because of the prognosis. But I just want a miracle to happen. Bryan is definitely an inspiration and would want to walk in his footsteps.”
What do you think about Paige drawing inspiration from Bryan’s WWE comeback?