“Would Be Open”: Tony Khan’s Plans for Temporary Natalya Storyline Stated Amid Contract Issues

Since 2022, All Elite Wrestling and Martha Hart have collaborated to honor the late Owen Hart with the men’s and women’s versions of the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. As announced by Martha Hart, Owen’s widow, and Tony Khan, president of All Elite Wrestling, the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament will return this year with an interesting novelty.

With the finals of both the men’s and women’s versions taking place on July 10 in Calgary, the late wrestler’s hometown, both winners will get a shot at the corresponding World Championship at All In 2024. Several superstars could put their hat into the ring but a major name that is expected to join is Natalya.

The niece of the late great Owen Hart. Tony Khan could tempt her with a special offer. So will she join the promotion for the event? Let’s find out.A few months ago, reports suggested that Natalya’s contract with WWE was coming to an end and that both she and the company would begin negotiating a renewal in the coming months. That time has already arrived, and Natalya already has an offer from WWE

However, she has not yet decided to accept it. She is expected to weigh all her available options before making a final decision.

Being the daughter of Jim Neidhart and niece of WWE Hall of Famer legends Bret “The Hitman” Hart and Owen Hart, Natalya is expected by many to join the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament.

Wrestling insider suggests that Tony Khan could pull out all the stops but Natalya may extend her stay with WWE

However, according to Fightful Wrestling‘s Sean Ross Sapp, Natalya might decide otherwise. Sapp said that despite the possibility of Tony Khan being open to offering a short-term contract, Natalya might deny the opportunity. “I’m sure he [Tony Khan] would be open to that, honestly. But I don’t know what’s going to happen there. I think they’re gonna stay. I think she’s gonna stay.” Perhaps her renewed focus due to her stint in NXT could play a part in her decision to stay with the Stamford-based promotion.

Over the past few months, Natalya has been wrestling mostly in NXT. She showcases a much-improved version of herself that fans seem to enjoy. In addition, it seems that Shawn Michaels highly values her experience in helping to build the brand’s women’s division. Therefore, she is likely to remain in NXT if she ultimately decides to renew her contract.

The latest edition of the Owen Hart Tournament took place from June 25 to July 15, 2023, during All Elite Wrestling’s Canadian tour. The women’s edition closed with Willow Nightingale clinching the decisive victory against Ruby Soho. On the men’s side, Ricky Starks lifted the trophy after defeating CM Punk. So it would be interesting to see who wins it this year. What do you think? Will Natalya be a part of the tournament? Let us know in the comments.