In news that we all knew was possible from the time of the most recent NXT tapings at Full Sail last month, and that Wrestling Observer and others broke over the weekend, WWE is now confirming that a shoulder injury will prevent Ember Moon from competing in the Women’s title match scheduled for May 20’s TakeOver: Chicago.
Moon landed awkwardly on a spot which saw Asuka throw her from the ring to the floor during the April 19 taping, and she’s been spotted wearing a sling since crashing hard on one shoulder while the other was extended awkwardly due to her forearm hitting the barricade. As a result, WWE.com is saying she’ll be out four or five weeks with a “grade one shoulder sprain” and unable to compete in Chicago.
It’s unclear if that timeframe starts from the taping or broadcast (May 3) date, but either would make the 20th unlikely/impossible.
There’s also no mention of what the change means for the planned Fatal 4Way at TakeOver, but it will likely become a Triple Threat. The post directs fans to tune in to this Wednesday’s episode to find out.
Luckily, it doesn’t sound like surgery is required, so Moon can return soon. How this effects plans for NXT and how they resolve Asuka’s streak and historic title reign is another matter.