In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, WWE NXT Women’s Champion Io Shirai discussed several topics, including why she is proud to be the Champion.

“I am so proud to be the Champion in what is considered one of the most-talented women’s divisions in NXT history. The fact that I have been able to defend my title against a series of skilled challengers in such high-level matches has been a great experience for me, I fully intend to defend my title in an effort to raise the brand profile of NXT and its women’s division by continuing to have quality matches week in and week out.”

The interview is available in full at this link.