Jamie Hayter: I Wouldn’t Have Any Qualms If I Retired Today; Being Accepted Is So Validating

Jamie Hayter is loving her current run as AEW Women’s World Champion.

Since becoming a full time member of the company in 2021, Jamie Hayter has slowly climbed the ranks of the AEW’s women’s division. Her ascend to the top was seemingly completed at the recent Full Gear pay-per-view, where Hayter defeated her longtime friend/rival Toni Storm to win the AEW Women’s World Title.

In a new interview with Sports Illustrated, Hayter revealed that she didn’t set any expectations when she first returned to All Elite Wrestling in 2021.

“I’ve never experienced anything at this level before. I went into this unknown as Britt’s muscle. I didn’t know what to expect, so I put everything I had into it—mind, body and soul.”

Hayter went on to show appreciation for the reception that she has been garnering in recent months.

“The crowd cares. I didn’t ever really know if they would. But they’ve been so loud chanting my name. So maybe this is my time. It’s been emotional. I’m still getting to know people. They’re still getting to know me, too. Being accepted, it’s been so validating.”

Hayter also went on to note that she told nobody about her AEW Women’s World Title win ahead of it actually happening.

“There was pressure and anxiety on the day of the match.That was real. I didn’t tell anyone. I didn’t even tell my mom. An audible could be called. You never know. If I retired today, I wouldn’t have any qualms. Whatever I do from this point forward is a bonus for me. I’ve made it.”

On the December 7 edition of AEW Dynamite, Hayter was interviewed by Tony Schiavone. To recap all of the happenings from Wednesday’s Dynamite, check out Fightful’s post-show review.

Earlier this year, Hayter noted that she’d be gunning to join the Blackpool Combat Club if she wasn’t paired with Britt Baker. To learn more, click here.

Special thanks to Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated for the quotes.