The latest issue of the
Wrestling Observer Newsletter has some interesting notes on the NXT brand. According to Dave Meltzer, Trish Stratus was the original choice to challenge Asuka at the next TakeOver. Reason being, Stratus is from Toronto, which is where that show takes place. However, it turns out that Stratus is pregnant.
Thus, Mickie James got the call instead and will make her first WWE appearance since 2010. Meltzer stated James was a last second decision, and she was actually in Europe when the announcement was made on NXT TV. They had hoped to bring her to TV for the announcement. At this point, James is scheduled for just the one appearance.
Meltzer reported the plan was to have Asuka turn heel against Stratus. WWE figured having her work against Stratus in Toronto would accomplish that. The reason they wanted Asuka to go heel is so there can be a more traditional face-heel dynamic when she eventually feuds with Ember Moon and not the shades of gray that existed when Asuka worked with Bayley.