Charlotte Flair believes Kiana James has the tools to become a top name in WWE, pointing to her growth and presence as reasons she stands out on the roster.
Speaking on ESPN First Take with Stephen A. Smith and Shae Cornette, Flair highlighted James as one of the talents she sees as a future main event player.
Charlotte Flair Kiana James Praise
Flair explained that she first connected with James at the WWE Performance Center while both were recovering from injuries, and she has been impressed with her development since returning.
“For me, definitely Kiana James. I met her at the PC when I was out with my knee injury and she had a knee injury as well. She was only on the roster for about a month before she got injured and she’s been back now for almost a year and I think she has the potential to be a main event player. She’s aggressive, she’s athletic, she’s powerful. She makes me want to step my game up and she’s very young and she’s soaking up every moment that she can. So look out for Kiana James. She’s going to be a big player.”
Cody Rhodes Also Earns Praise
Flair also spoke about Cody Rhodes when discussing performers who embody the same qualities she associates with her father, Ric Flair.
“But even though, yes, I think my dad is the goat the best. He talks the talk, walks the walk. But I have to say Cody Rhodes every, whether it’s Monday or Friday, I know he’s a Smackdown talent, goes out there and gives it his all. And you can feel it in his words. So my dad had a career of 50 years, but I think if there is a guy to talk the talk, walk the walk and and really live what he’s saying is Cody Rhodes.”
Ongoing SmackDown Storylines
Flair is currently involved in a storyline with Fatal Influence, following the group’s recent debut. She teamed with Alexa Bliss against the faction, which includes Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, and Lainey Reid.
During a recent SmackDown episode, Jayne defeated Flair after interference from her stablemates, leading to a post-match attack that was interrupted by Rhea Ripley.
Kiana James’ Current Role
James has been active both as a competitor and as an on-screen manager for Giulia. After being drafted to RAW in 2024, she suffered a foot injury that kept her sidelined. She returned roughly a year later and is now part of the SmackDown roster.
Flair’s comments add to the growing attention around James, positioning her as a talent to watch moving forward.
Charlotte Flair Praises Kiana James
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