Zoey Stark’s exciting Money in the Bank qualifier match on Monday Night Raw took an unfortunate turn when she suffered a knee injury while executing a springboard dropkick. The injury has sparked concern across the wrestling community, with no official diagnosis announced yet.
Stark’s Springboard Dropkick Goes Awry, Leading to Injury
During the high-profile qualifier match against Kairi Sane and Rhea Ripley, Stark went for her trademark springboard dropkick. The move, usually a highlight of her dynamic in-ring style, ended badly as she landed awkwardly, causing her knee to bend painfully. Immediate silence fell over the crowd as medics rushed to her side.
Stark initially tried to walk backstage but soon needed assistance, eventually being carried out for further medical evaluation. The WWE Universe quickly realized this was more serious than a routine bump.
What makes the situation more concerning is Stark’s prior knee history. In 2021, she underwent surgery to repair a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus, injuries known for lengthy recovery periods and high reinjury risk.
A History of Knee Issues Shadows Stark’s Rising Career
Zoey Stark’s battle with knee injuries is well documented. Her 2021 surgery was a critical moment that tested her resolve and commitment to wrestling. Returning from such a severe injury demands physical toughness and mental grit, qualities Stark has shown in abundance.
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Knee injuries in wrestling are notoriously tough, given the intense physicality.
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Stark’s rehabilitation took months, and her gradual return to the ring was watched closely by fans and analysts.
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Now, her recent injury raises fears of another long road to recovery.
Her story is a stark reminder of the risks wrestlers face every time they step into the ring — the toll on their bodies is real and ongoing.
Wrestling Community Floods Social Media With Support
Messages of encouragement and prayers poured in from the wrestling world soon after the injury news spread. Natalya Neidhart, a multi-time women’s champion, expressed her heartfelt support: “I love you Zoey Stark and I’m keeping you in my prayers.”
Former AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa commented, “Wrestling is beautiful but dangerous. We risk everything we love every time we step in the ring. Zoey Stark, I love you sister — hope you recover soon.”
Shane Helms, aka The Hurricane, pointed out the toll injuries take: “Every bump causes damage, sometimes life-altering. Get well soon, Zoey Stark. We all love ya!”
Even ECW legend Tommy Dreamer showed solidarity: “Prayers and positive vibes for Zoey Stark. I’m the biggest StarkMark.”
From Independent Circuits to WWE Spotlight
Zoey Stark’s journey is impressive. Starting on the independent wrestling scene in 2013, she wrestled for promotions like Vendetta Pro Wrestling, Ultra Championship Wrestling-Zero, and Future Stars of Wrestling. These early years shaped her into the fierce competitor she is today.
Her WWE debut came on January 29, 2021, with 205 Live. She later moved to NXT, where her tag team with Io Shirai (now Women’s World Champion Iyo Sky) captured the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship. In 2023, Stark earned a call-up to WWE’s main Raw roster, a sign of her rising status in the company.
She was also part of the Pure Fusion Collective alongside Sonya Deville and Shayna Baszler — both of whom have since left WWE.
Potential Impact of Stark’s Injury on WWE’s Women’s Division
The injury comes at a critical time with the Money in the Bank event on the horizon. Stark was expected to make a major impact, and her absence leaves a gap in the women’s roster.
Here’s a snapshot of the potential fallout:
| Factor | Possible Consequences |
|---|---|
| Recovery Duration | Could mean weeks or months out |
| Roster Adjustments | Other women wrestlers may get new opportunities |
| Storyline Changes | WWE might need to rewrite ongoing narratives |
| Fan Reactions | Mixed emotions of concern and support |
WWE has a history of adapting storylines around injuries, but losing a rising star like Stark is always tough for fans and the locker room alike.
Awaiting Official Diagnosis, Fans and Peers Hope for the Best
As of now, neither WWE nor Zoey Stark has released an official statement on the injury’s severity. Medical evaluations take time, and fans are anxiously waiting for clarity.
What’s clear is the outpouring of support and solidarity within the wrestling community, a reminder of the risks and sacrifices these athletes make every night.
Zoey Stark’s fighting spirit and resilience will be tested once again, and the wrestling world hopes to see her back in action soon.
