Natalya’s Heel Turn Gains Backstage Support – Natalya’s unexpected heel turn on the January 19 episode of Monday Night RAW was more than a simple storyline twist. According to backstage reports, the character shift has been met with strong approval within WWE, with many believing the change is long overdue for one of the most respected veterans in the locker room.

Natalya had been portrayed as a babyface since 2022, often positioned as a mentor figure to younger talent. That dynamic came to an abrupt end when she turned on Maxxine Dupri during Dupri’s Women’s Intercontinental Championship match against Becky Lynch. Late in the match, Dupri appeared to have the contest won. However, Natalya intervened by placing Lynch’s foot on the bottom rope, breaking the pinfall attempt. Lynch went on to retain the title, and Natalya made her intentions clear by attacking Dupri after the match.

PWInsider reports that the reaction backstage was largely positive. Many within WWE were said to be very happy for Natalya following the segment. She is widely viewed as a dependable and influential presence, and there is a belief that she has earned the opportunity to explore a more aggressive, television-focused character. Internally, the heel turn is seen as a chance for Natalya to step into a more prominent on-screen role after several years in a supporting position.

Several people within the company have also pointed to the work Natalya does outside of television as a key reason for the support she receives. Along with her husband, TJ Wilson, she continues to help train and mentor younger wrestlers at the Dungeon. That ongoing commitment to talent development has reinforced her value to WWE beyond her in-ring performances.

The heel turn was not considered a sudden decision. Natalya had already begun experimenting with the “Nattie Neidhart” persona outside of WWE, including appearances during WrestleMania 41 weekend at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport. WWE also subtly teased this direction in December 2025, when Natalya appeared in training segments alongside Dupri, hinting at a potential shift in attitude.

With this change, Natalya moves into a role that could refresh her career and add another experienced antagonist to the women’s division. Backstage belief is that the new direction gives her renewed momentum and allows WWE to make better use of her experience and credibility moving forward.

Natalya’s Heel Turn Gains Backstage Support

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