Bianca Belair, one of WWE’s most dynamic and marketable stars, is making headlines once more—but this time, it’s not for an in-ring achievement. As she continues her recovery from a serious hand injury, Belair has taken a major step in her entertainment career by signing with the powerhouse talent agency, Creative Artists Agency (CAA)[1][2]. This strategic move signals her ambitions both inside and outside the squared circle, fueling speculation about her path forward as fans await her highly anticipated WWE return.
Major Career Move Amid Extended WWE Absence
Belair, a former Raw Women’s Champion, has been conspicuously absent from WWE programming since WrestleMania 41 in April 2025[1][2]. Her last match—a high-stakes WWE Women’s World Title Triple Threat against IYO SKY and Rhea Ripley—ended not with a championship celebration, but with a severe broken knuckle joint. The injury, which occurred during a top-rope sequence when Ripley landed on her hand, proved far more severe than initial reports suggested. While broken fingers often heal quickly, joint injuries are notoriously tricky; Belair’s recovery has been complicated and lengthy, with recent updates indicating she could remain sidelined through the end of 2025[1][6].
Sources report that Belair initially expected to be out for just 8 to 12 weeks, but the complex nature of her injury—specifically the damage to the joint—has delayed her comeback significantly[3][4]. “My body’s not doing what it’s supposed to do, but I’m hoping I can be back in the ring soon,” Belair recently told WWE Digital, highlighting both her frustration and determination[2][5].
Signing With CAA: Expanding Her Brand Beyond WWE
Belair’s decision to sign with Creative Artists Agency is a defining moment in her career trajectory[1][2]. CAA is renowned for representing top names across film, television, sports, and digital media. As WWE continues to position its top stars for crossover success, Belair’s new representation suggests she is preparing for opportunities well beyond wrestling.
With CAA behind her, Belair aims to leverage her charisma, athleticism, and growing fan base into acting, podcasting, endorsement deals, and more. Insiders close to WWE creative note that, “Belair has always had Hollywood potential, and with CAA on board, we expect her to explore major projects outside the ring while she heals. WWE is supportive—this only increases her star power for when she returns.”[2]
Hollywood Aspirations and Previous Media Success
Belair’s entertainment ambitions are no surprise to those who have followed her career. She has already built a strong media presence, starring in Netflix’s WWE: Unreal, Hulu’s Love & WWE: Bianca and Montez (with husband Montez Ford), and making appearances on Peacock’s Bel-Air[2]. Her social media following has surged—up 26% in the past year—now boasting over six million followers across platforms[2]. These numbers underscore her broad appeal and the commercial potential that CAA will look to maximize.
Limited WWE Appearances During Hiatus
Despite her injury, Belair has maintained a connection with WWE audiences. In July, she made a high-profile appearance as the special guest referee for the No Holds Barred match between Jade Cargill and Naomi at the Evolution Premium Live Event[1][2]. While these non-wrestling roles are a far cry from her usual athletic showcases, they have kept her in the spotlight and reminded fans of her star quality.
Recovery Challenges: A Test of Resilience
Belair’s path to recovery has been anything but straightforward. The initial prognosis underestimated the severity of her joint injury, and what was expected to be a short layoff has evolved into a months-long ordeal[3][4][6]. According to a trainer familiar with her rehabilitation, “Bianca’s injury was more complicated than anyone realized. Joint injuries take time, and she’s been incredibly disciplined, but the timeline keeps shifting. She’s determined to come back at 100%, not a step less.”
Recent reports suggest that she may not return to in-ring competition until early 2026, though WWE has not set an official date[1][6]. The company, for its part, has left the door open for her to take on ambassadorial or media roles in the meantime, a strategy that aligns well with her CAA signing.
What’s Next: The Future for Bianca Belair in WWE and Beyond
With her agency deal now public, speculation is running wild about Belair’s next moves. Will she make a splash in Hollywood, return to dominate WWE’s women’s division, or attempt both? The answer may depend on her health, but the groundwork is clearly being laid for a major return.
WWE officials are reportedly enthusiastic about Belair’s expanded profile. “When Bianca comes back, expect a massive push. She’s a proven draw, and her mainstream appeal is only growing,” a WWE insider shared on condition of anonymity. “She’s got that rare crossover magic—think John Cena or The Rock—where she can move between wrestling and entertainment seamlessly.”[2]
Fan Reactions and Industry Impact
The WWE Universe has rallied behind Belair during her absence, voicing support on social media and anticipating her comeback. Industry analysts believe that her CAA signing could set a trend for other top WWE Superstars seeking to diversify their careers. As WWE continues to blend sports entertainment with broader pop culture, Belair’s journey is seen as a blueprint for future stars.
Backstage Buzz: A Superstar’s Perspective
Reflecting on her time away, Belair offered a candid assessment: “It’s been a crazy journey. Being an athlete, you rely on your body, and now my body’s not doing what it’s supposed to do. But I’m using this time to grow—inside and outside the ring. I can’t wait for what’s next, and trust me, when I come back, it’s going to be bigger than ever.”[2][5]
Conclusion: A New Chapter Unfolds
Bianca Belair’s signing with CAA marks a pivotal moment in her career. As she battles back from injury, she’s positioned herself for superstardom—on screen, online, and eventually, back in the WWE ring. Fans and insiders alike are watching closely, knowing that the next time the “EST of WWE” steps through the curtain, it could be the start of her biggest chapter yet.