New character shift seen as overdue opportunity for veteran star
Summary
– Natalya turned heel on the January 19 episode of Raw
– The move reportedly received positive internal reactions
– WWE views the change as a chance for a stronger on-screen role
Natalya’s heel turn on the January 19 edition of Monday Night Raw marked a notable change in direction for one of WWE’s longest-tenured performers. After spending the past several years as a babyface, the veteran shifted gears in a moment that caught both fans and talent off guard.
The turn took place during Maxxine Dupri’s Women’s Intercontinental Championship match against Becky Lynch. With Dupri seemingly on the verge of victory, Natalya interfered by placing Lynch’s foot on the rope, keeping the match alive. Lynch ultimately capitalized on the opportunity and secured the win. Natalya then doubled down on the moment by attacking Dupri after the match.
According to PWInsider, the segment was well-received backstage. Natalya is widely respected within WWE, and many within the company believe she has earned the chance to explore a more aggressive, television-focused character at this stage of her career.
The company believes this new direction could open the door to more consistent and meaningful television time. Several people have pointed to Natalya’s reputation as a locker-room leader as a reason WWE is comfortable leaning into the change.
Internally, her value is also tied to the work she and her husband, TJ Wilson, continue to do with younger talent at the Dungeon. Their involvement in developing the next generation is viewed as an important contribution to the company beyond weekly television.
The heel turn itself had been quietly building. Natalya had already experimented with the “Nattie Neidhart” persona outside WWE, beginning during WrestleMania 41 weekend at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport. WWE also hinted at the shift in late 2025 through training segments that paired Natalya with Dupri.
