Former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Lacey Lane, widely recognized by WWE fans as Kayden Carter, made her highly anticipated debut at Ring of Honor (ROH) television tapings on September 10, 2025, in Philadelphia’s iconic 2300 Arena, just ahead of a live AEW Dynamite broadcast. This appearance marked Lane’s first major outing since her release from WWE earlier this year, sparking widespread speculation about her future in professional wrestling and her possible connection to AEW under Tony Khan’s ownership[1][2][5].
Kayden Carter’s WWE Legacy and Surprising Release
Lacey Lane, who performed as Kayden Carter in WWE, was an integral part of the WWE women’s tag team scene from 2018 until May 2025. Alongside her tag partner Katana Chance (formerly Kacy Catanzaro), Lane helped elevate WWE’s women’s tag divisions. The duo captured both the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship—holding the titles for a record-setting 186 days—and the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship on the main roster in December 2023[1][2].
Their release in May 2025 took many wrestling fans and insiders by surprise, given their consistent television presence and championship pedigree. They were notably featured in high-profile matches, including a Women’s Tag Team Championship #1 contender’s gauntlet on SmackDown in April 2025. According to sources close to the WWE locker room, roster adjustments aimed at “refreshing” the division led to their unexpected exit despite solid fan support[2].
ROH Debut Signals New Chapter
After the expiration of her 90-day WWE non-compete clause in August 2025, Lacey Lane wasted no time returning to the ring. Her appearance at ROH, owned by Tony Khan who also helms AEW, showcases the growing interconnectedness of AEW and ROH talent pools. Although details of Lane’s match at the 2300 Arena have not been officially released, the bout is planned to be broadcast on an upcoming ROH TV episode[1][3].
Industry insiders view Lane’s ROH debut as a strategic move, both for her and the promotion. A wrestling source told Ringside News, “Lacey brings a blend of athleticism and charisma that fits perfectly with ROH’s evolving women’s division. Her presence adds instant credibility and depth, and it’s clear that Tony Khan sees her as a key player in AEW’s broader vision.” The insider also hinted that more appearances for Lane in AEW programming might be forthcoming, given Khan’s attention on her talent and marketability[5].
What This Means for AEW and ROH Women’s Divisions
Tony Khan’s dual ownership of AEW and ROH allows for fluid wrestler movement between the two companies, often using ROH as a springboard before elevating talent to AEW’s larger platform. Lacey Lane’s transition follows this trend and hints at future opportunities to compete on some of AEW’s biggest shows, including Dynamite and Rampage.
Fans can expect Lane’s style—characterized by her high-energy offense, technical skill, and chemistry in tag team scenarios—to inject fresh excitement into ROH’s women’s division. Moreover, her history of holding tag titles positions her as a potential top contender or champion in AEW’s tag team or singles women’s ranks.
What’s Next for Lacey Lane?
While Lane’s ROH match is her first post-WWE appearance, the wrestling world eagerly watches for official word on her long-term plans. Given AEW’s sustained growth and emphasis on talent development, it’s likely Lane is being groomed for a substantial role.
According to a WWE insider familiar with Lane’s departure, she “always had the talent and fan connection to succeed outside WWE; her ROH debut is just the beginning of a new chapter—a chance to redefine herself with more creative freedom.” Allegedly, Lane herself has expressed excitement about the possibilities ahead, focusing on honing her craft and reaching new audiences[2][5].
Final Thoughts
Lacey Lane’s ROH debut ahead of AEW Dynamite on September 10 is a significant development in the pro wrestling landscape of 2025. It illustrates the shifting dynamics of women’s wrestling beyond WWE and highlights AEW and ROH’s growing influence as platforms for top talent. With Tony Khan reportedly keeping a close eye on her, fans might soon witness Lane’s rise as a key figure in AEW’s burgeoning women’s division.
For now, her ROH match airing soon offers the first official glimpse of Lacey Lane’s post-WWE wrestling journey and sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting new phase in her career.