Shayna Baszler is set to make her official in-ring return following her WWE departure, marking a significant milestone in her wrestling career. The former NXT Women’s Champion has been announced to face Masha Slamovich at Prestige Wrestling’s Roseland XII event on October 5, 2025, in Portland, Oregon. This high-profile match signals Baszler’s re-entry into the independent wrestling scene and sets the stage for an exciting new chapter outside WWE[1][2][4].
Shayna Baszler vs. Masha Slamovich: A Clash of Styles
Prestige Wrestling revealed the matchup on their social media channels, billing Baszler, known as “The Queen of Spades,” against “The Russian Dynamite” Masha Slamovich. This bout will take place at the historic Roseland Theater, promising a sold-out crowd eager to see these two fierce competitors. The pairing is notable because both wrestlers exhibit hard-hitting, MMA-influenced styles, which should create an intense and physical contest[1][2][5].
Baszler and Slamovich previously crossed paths in Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport events, with their last encounter taking place at Bloodsport X in 2024. This familiarity adds intrigue to the bout as fans anticipate how their styles have evolved since then[4].
From WWE Release to Independent Spotlight
Shayna Baszler’s release from WWE in May 2025 surprised many, especially since she still had about three years remaining on her contract, which she had extended prior to her departure. Sources close to WWE indicate that Baszler’s exit was not due to contract expiration but rather creative stagnation following the non-renewal of her tag partner Sonya Deville earlier that year. This led to Baszler and Zoey Stark being gradually removed from storylines and television, effectively signaling Baszler’s WWE exit in early 2025[1].
A WWE insider shared, “The writing was clearly on the wall for Shayna after Sonya’s release. Baszler’s pitches weren’t gaining traction, and WWE decided to move in a different direction creatively. They still respected her enough to avoid a messy release, but it’s a loss for the company as she’s one of the toughest performers on the roster” [1].
Despite the setback, Baszler remained active in wrestling during her WWE tenure, notably competing at GCW’s Bloodsport event in April 2025 while still under contract. This independent outing hinted at her desire to return to a more varied wrestling schedule post-WWE[3][4].
What This Means for Baszler’s Future
The announced match for Prestige Wrestling is more than just a comeback; it represents Baszler’s deliberate move to rekindle her career on the independent circuit and possibly explore opportunities across various promotions. In a recent interview, Baszler expressed her openness to working with longtime friends in AEW, but emphasized her goal to “finish up some old business” on the indie scene first[2].
This sentiment aligns with her booking for Prestige Roseland XII, which also features top independent stars like Judas Icarus, Danhausen, and Trish Adora, positioning the event as a marquee show for fans eager to see a blend of established names and rising talent[2].
A source familiar with Baszler’s plans revealed, “She’s eager to prove that she’s still one of the best in the world. This match against Masha Slamovich is a perfect way to show fans that Shayna’s edge and intensity haven’t diminished. Expect her to bring the same tough, no-nonsense style that made her a star in WWE” [2].
About Masha Slamovich: A Formidable Opponent
Masha Slamovich, Baszler’s opponent, has quickly risen in prominence with her aggressive wrestling style and strong character work. Recently, Slamovich participated in a high-stakes Triple Threat match at NXT Heatwave for the TNA Knockouts World Championship. Though she didn’t win the title, her performance against champion Jacy Jayne and Ash by Elegance solidified her reputation as a top contender in women’s wrestling[1].
The match ended controversially when Ash by Elegance captured the title after interference, further fueling Slamovich’s momentum as a rising star seeking redemption and championship gold outside WWE’s confines. Facing Baszler will be a significant test in her career[1].
Prestige Wrestling’s Roseland XII: The Perfect Stage
Scheduled for October 5 at Portland’s Roseland Theater, Prestige Roseland XII is shaping up to be a landmark wrestling event. The card boasts a mix of beloved independent stars and established veterans, making it a highly anticipated show. The inclusion of Baszler adds considerable star power and media attention, which Prestige Wrestling will likely leverage to expand its audience and reputation[2][5].
Tickets have been made available for all ages, welcoming wrestling fans of every generation to witness this historic event. The promotion’s social media announcement generated immediate buzz, reflecting fans’ excitement about Baszler’s return[2].
Final Thoughts
Shayna Baszler’s first post-WWE match against Masha Slamovich represents a critical turning point in her career. Released while still under contract, Baszler is embracing independence and the opportunity to reconnect with fans outside WWE’s scripted environment. This bout allows her to showcase her renowned MMA-based style against a worthy opponent in Slamovich, who is herself on the rise.
As Baszler prepares for this new chapter, industry insiders and fans alike will be watching closely to see how she reinvents herself and whether this sparks further opportunities in other promotions. Prestige Wrestling’s Roseland XII on October 5 stands as the ideal platform for what could be the next exciting era of Shayna Baszler’s wrestling journey.
“Shayna is not one to take setbacks lightly,” a wrestling insider told us. “She’s sharpening her craft and ready to remind everyone why she’s one of the most feared competitors in the business.”