Bayley Reflects on Damage CTRL’s WarGames Setback: “We’re Not Done Yet!

Bayley, the leader of WWE’s dominant faction, Damage CTRL, has never been one to shy away from a challenge—or a microphone. But at Survivor Series 2023, her team found itself on the losing end of the Women’s WarGames match, leaving fans buzzing about what went wrong and what’s next for the group.

In an emotional backstage interview after the grueling bout, Bayley opened up about the loss, her team’s resilience, and why Damage CTRL isn’t throwing in the towel anytime soon. “It stings. We put everything into this match, but sometimes things don’t go the way you plan,” Bayley admitted, visibly drained but still defiant. “But don’t think for a second this is the end of Damage CTRL. We’re just getting started.”

WarGames Recap: A Battle for the Ages

The Women’s WarGames match at Survivor Series was nothing short of chaotic brilliance. Damage CTRL—comprised of Bayley, IYO SKY, Dakota Kai, and new recruit Kairi Sane—entered the double-ring cage with a bold strategy: divide and conquer. But their opponents, the babyface dream team led by Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair, and Charlotte Flair, had plans of their own.

From the moment the first competitors stepped into the unforgiving steel structure, the energy was electric. IYO SKY once again proved why she’s one of WWE’s most dynamic high flyers with a jaw-dropping moonsault off the cage, while Kairi Sane brought her trademark ferocity to every exchange. Bayley herself was the glue holding the team together, barking orders and diving headfirst into danger.

However, the turning point came when a miscommunication between Bayley and IYO allowed Becky Lynch to capitalize, hitting a devastating Manhandle Slam to secure the victory for her team. The crowd erupted, but the look on Bayley’s face told a different story: frustration mixed with determination.

“A Setback, Not the End”

Bayley’s post-match comments struck a chord with fans who’ve watched Damage CTRL’s rollercoaster journey over the past year. “A loss doesn’t define us,” she said firmly. “We’ve been through too much to let one night derail what we’ve built. This is just a chapter in a much bigger story.”

That bigger story includes the return of Kairi Sane, whose reappearance last month sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe. Reuniting with her former tag team partner IYO SKY, Sane’s addition has reinvigorated Damage CTRL—but it’s also created questions about the group’s internal dynamics. Bayley has always been the de facto leader, but fans have speculated whether the recent shakeup might shift the balance of power.

Cracks in the foundation?

Despite Bayley’s reassurances, not everyone is convinced that Damage CTRL is as united as she claims. Observant fans noted tense interactions between Bayley and IYO SKY during the match, with some even speculating that a power struggle could be brewing. After all, IYO’s reign as Women’s Champion has catapulted her to the forefront of the division, potentially overshadowing Bayley’s leadership.

When asked about these rumors, Bayley dismissed them with a laugh. “People love to stir the pot, don’t they? IYO and I are on the same page. She’s a champion for a reason, and I’m proud of her. That’s what a team is about—lifting each other up, not tearing each other down.”

Still, the WWE Universe can’t ignore the subtle tension that’s been brewing within the group. Could Survivor Series be the catalyst for a seismic shift within Damage CTRL? Or is this simply another chapter in their evolving narrative?

What’s Next for Damage CTRL?

As the dust settles from the Survivor Series, the question on everyone’s mind is: Where does Damage CTRL go from here? Bayley’s determined to keep the group’s momentum alive, but the path forward is anything but clear.

“We’ve got some things to figure out,” Bayley admitted. “But that’s what makes us dangerous. We adapt, we evolve, and we come back stronger.”

The faction’s immediate future will likely revolve around reclaiming dominance in the women’s division. With IYO SKY still holding the Women’s Championship and Kairi Sane bringing a renewed edge to the group, there’s no shortage of opportunities for Damage CTRL to make an impact. And while Bayley didn’t reveal specific plans, her cryptic smile hinted that the best is yet to come.

Fan Reactions: Divided but Engaged

Unsurprisingly, the WWE Universe had plenty to say about Damage CTRL’s WarGames performance. Social media lit up with a mix of praise and criticism, with some fans applauding their resilience and others questioning their cohesion.

“Bayley’s the heart and soul of that team,” one fan tweeted. “But maybe it’s time for someone else to step up.”

Another fan countered, “Damage CTRL is the most exciting thing in WWE right now. A loss doesn’t change that.”

The passionate reactions underscore one thing: Damage CTRL is a storyline fans are deeply invested in, win or lose.

The Legacy of WarGames

For Bayley, Survivor Series 2023 wasn’t just another match—it was a chance to cement Damage CTRL’s legacy in WWE history. And while the outcome wasn’t what she envisioned, her resolve remains unshaken.

“WarGames is about more than wins and losses,” Bayley said. “It’s about proving you belong, that you can stand toe-to-toe with the best. And we did that.”

As fans speculate about what’s next, one thing is certain: Bayley and Damage CTRL aren’t fading into the background. Whether they rebuild, retool, or implode entirely, the faction remains a focal point of WWE programming—and a storyline fans won’t want to miss.

The Comeback Queens?

If Bayley’s anything, she’s a master of reinvention. From her days as the beloved Hugger to her transformation into the brash leader of Damage CTRL, she’s consistently proven her ability to bounce back from adversity. Survivor Series 2023 may have been a setback, but for Bayley and her team, it’s just another step in their journey.

“We’re not done yet,” Bayley promised. And if history’s any indication, she’s right. Damage CTRL might be down, but they’re far from out.