Naomi Relinquishes Women’s World Championship Amid Pregnancy Announcement — Who Will Step Up Next?

In an emotional moment on the August 18, 2025 episode of Monday Night Raw, WWE Women’s World Champion Naomi (Trinity Fatu) announced that she is pregnant with her first child alongside husband Jimmy Uso. The news brought both celebration and surprise, as Naomi also confirmed she would be relinquishing her championship immediately.

Her reign ends after just over a month, with one successful title defense, but Naomi made it clear she isn’t done with WWE. In true fashion, she delivered a fiery message to the locker room, promising to return “breastfeeding with my baby in my arms” and warning her future opponents to “proceed with caution.”

The announcement leaves a major vacancy atop the women’s division. WWE now faces the task of crowning a new champion, and several top names are already being discussed.

Stephanie Vaquer: The Front-Runner

Perhaps the most obvious candidate is Stephanie Vaquer. The Chilean star won the Women’s Battle Royal at Evolution in July, earning the right to face Naomi at Clash in Paris on August 31. With Naomi sidelined, Vaquer is still in prime position to compete for the gold. WWE could simply award her a shot at the vacant championship, making her the immediate favorite.

Rhea Ripley: Drawing Power

Few stars have the aura of Rhea Ripley. A former champion with global appeal, Ripley has been chasing redemption since losing her grip on the division earlier this year. A coronation at a major event, particularly one staged overseas, would cement her status as the face of the division once again.

IYO SKY: A Proven Champion

IYO SKY has already shown she can carry the brand as champion. The Genius of the Sky is one of WWE’s most consistent performers, capable of delivering classics with anyone. A second reign could reignite her rivalries and provide stability at the top of the division.

Bianca Belair: The Big Return

Though currently sidelined, Bianca Belair’s name looms large. WWE could opt to time her comeback with the championship chase, using her as a surprise challenger to deliver a major moment. Belair’s athleticism and mainstream appeal make her a natural fit to carry the title again.

Becky Lynch: The Veteran

Currently holding the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, Becky Lynch is another intriguing option. WWE could play up her heel momentum and crown her a dual champion, establishing “The Man” as an even more dominant force in the women’s division.

Raquel Rodriguez: The Powerhouse

Raquel Rodriguez has the size, strength, and presence to dominate the women’s roster. While she’s had championship opportunities before, this moment could finally be her breakthrough. A title run would establish her as the unstoppable powerhouse WWE has been grooming her to be.

Roxanne Perez: The Rising Star

At just 23 years old, Roxanne Perez continues to prove why she’s viewed as the future of WWE’s women’s division. Elevating her into the world title scene would be a bold move, but it could also be the perfect way to freshen up the roster and build a long-term star.

Liv Morgan: The Question Mark

Currently sidelined with injury, Liv Morgan remains one of the most beloved stars in the division. Fans continue to wonder: could she be back in time to compete for the title? If so, WWE has the chance to deliver a major surprise. A comeback tied directly to the championship picture would give Morgan a powerful redemption arc and instantly inject excitement into the title chase.

Prediction: Who Takes the Throne?

While the division is stacked with potential champions, three names stand above the rest: Stephanie Vaquer, Rhea Ripley, and Raquel Rodriguez.

• Vaquer has the inside track after earning her shot at Clash in Paris. WWE could capitalize on her momentum and make her the next breakout international star.

• Ripley is the safest choice — a proven draw, a former champion, and someone the company trusts to headline big events.

• Rodriguez is the wild card. WWE has been slowly building her as a powerhouse, and with Naomi gone, this could be the perfect moment to finally give her the spotlight and solidify her as a dominant force.

If WWE wants to play it bold, Vaquer walks away as the new Women’s World Champion. If they want stability, Ripley is the pick. But if they want to elevate a fresh star, Raquel Rodriguez could be the choice that reshapes the division.

One thing is certain — no matter who wins, Naomi’s eventual return in 2026 will be one of the most anticipated comebacks in WWE history.