Natalya’s highly anticipated debut match in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) earlier this year remains unseen by fans, sparking widespread speculation that WWE played a key role in preventing its broadcast. The controversy sheds light on the complex relationship between WWE and other wrestling promotions, especially when it involves shared talent and cross-promotional appearances.
Natalya’s NWA Debut and the Buried Match
In May 2025, Natalya, competing under her real name Nattie Neidhart, made a notable debut at the NWA Crockett Cup, challenging Kenzie Paige for the NWA Women’s World Championship. While she ultimately did not capture the title, insiders praise her in-ring performance as a highlight for the NWA. The match was recorded as part of the NWA’s planned televised content, yet it has never aired, leaving fans puzzled and frustrated[3].
Fightful Select reports that WWE is believed to be behind the decision to block the airing of Natalya’s NWA match. “After Nattie Neidhart’s interview with Cody Rhodes, several readers questioned why her match never aired. It was heavily implied WWE made that call,” a source familiar with the matter revealed. This indicates WWE may have acted to protect its brand or control how its talent is presented outside WWE programming[3].
The decision comes amid unusual scheduling and airing delays within NWA broadcasts, contributing to confusion around title reigns and match outcomes. Matches that took place months ago only recently aired, and title changes from August 2025 were acknowledged publicly much later, disrupting continuity for viewers[3].
Fan Altercation Overshadows the Match
The controversy deepened following Natalya’s post-match behavior at the Crockett Cup. Viral footage showed Natalya confronting a fan in a pink shirt who was reportedly heckling her during the event. The video depicts Natalya slapping the fan and attempting further strikes before security intervened. The incident rapidly circulated on social media, igniting heated debates about the boundaries between scripted performance and reality in wrestling[1][2][4][5].
Some fans speculated the altercation was staged as part of a storyline, while others expressed concern over fan safety and professionalism. Despite the uproar, Natalya and WWE remained silent on the matter, with no official announcements about disciplinary actions or storyline follow-ups[1][4].
WWE’s Strategic Interest in Controlling Natalya’s Image
Natalya remains a valuable part of WWE’s women’s division, appearing sporadically on RAW and competing in WWE’s Women’s Intercontinental Title tournaments in 2025. WWE has historically guarded how their contracted wrestlers engage with other promotions, especially when it involves televised appearances[1][3].
An insider commented on WWE’s possible motivation: “They want to maintain a consistent brand image. Allowing Natalya’s NWA match to air amidst airing issues and fan incidents could dilute WWE’s control over storylines and character portrayal.” This suggests WWE’s move to block the match was likely a protective measure rather than purely competitive[3].
Impact on Fans and the Wrestling Community
Fans have expressed disappointment over losing access to what many anticipated as a high-caliber match bridging WWE and NWA audiences. Wrestling communities online question if WWE’s interference in airing rights is fair to viewers craving cross-promotional wrestling content.
The delayed recognition of title changes by the NWA, coupled with WWE’s reported blocking of Natalya’s match, adds to a narrative of broadcast chaos and missed opportunities for wrestling promotions to collaborate fluidly[3].
Behind the Scenes: What Sources Say
According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, NWA’s figurehead, efforts were made internally to manage the broadcast delays and confusion surrounding title changes. However, dealing with WWE’s talent contracts and broadcast restrictions remains a persistent challenge.
One backstage source revealed: “NWA is keen on elevating their women’s division with talents like Natalya, but navigating WWE’s restrictions is tricky. Decisions like not airing the match frustrate promoters and fans alike, but often come down to legal and branding issues.”[3]
What’s Next for Natalya and NWA?
With Natalya’s NWA match shelved indefinitely, speculation surrounds her future appearances outside WWE and the potential for more cross-promotion if contractual issues can be managed. Despite her limited WWE appearances this year, Natalya continues to build her reputation on the independent circuit, notably with Bloodsport and other promotions, signaling a willingness to diversify her wrestling portfolio[1].
NWA, meanwhile, faces the ongoing task of coordinating broadcast schedules and clarifying title lineage amid setbacks related to airing delays and contract restrictions. The situation exemplifies broader challenges in modern professional wrestling where multi-promotion collaborations must contend with exclusive contracts and branding priorities[3].
Do you think WWE was justified in blocking Natalya’s NWA match broadcast, or should fans be allowed to enjoy these crossover moments? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below.