Stephanie Vaquer’s WWE return was reportedly delayed on purpose, even though she had already been medically cleared to compete. Vaquer finally returned on the August 3 episode of RAW, but a new backstage report suggests WWE could have brought her back much earlier.

RAW had already delivered a major surprise earlier in the night when Becky Lynch returned after being away for around two months. Lynch confronted Liv Morgan and brought their issues over the Women’s World Championship back into focus.

As Morgan and The Judgment Day were leaving, Vaquer’s music suddenly played. La Primera immediately took down Raquel Rodriguez before going after Morgan. However, Morgan quickly escaped as Vaquer made it clear that she was back in the title picture.

According to PWInsider, WWE had received medical clearance for Vaquer some time ago. However, the company decided to wait until it had the right storyline and the right moment for her comeback.

WWE reportedly did not want to rush Vaquer back just for the sake of getting her on TV. Even though SummerSlam had just taken place, Vaquer did not appear at the event. WWE reportedly went to great lengths to keep her return under wraps.

The report also claimed that WWE did not finalize the return plan until the weekend before RAW. Her travel plans were reportedly made very late as well. This was done to reduce the chances of fans spotting her before RAW.

Once the former WWE Women’s Champion arrived at the arena, WWE allegedly kept her hidden backstage until it was time for her entrance. The secrecy helped WWE get the reaction it wanted.

There were no major signs or rumors that Vaquer would appear on RAW. Becky Lynch’s return was already expected to be one of the biggest surprises of the night, so Vaquer’s arrival added another unexpected moment.

The crowd reaction showed just how effective the surprise was.