Atlanta, Housing Market
by Kandiss Edwards

June 9, 2025

Housing Supply Outnumbers The Demand Creating An Advantage For Buyers

A report by real estate brokerage, Redfin, states the number of available homes exceeds the number of active buyers.

The real estate market is seeing a shift in supply and demand that favors buyers. 

A report by real estate brokerage Redfin stated that the number of available homes exceeds the number of active buyers by 500,000. This is the largest disparity in the seller-to-buyer ratio since 2013. As a result, housing costs are estimated to decline by 1% “year over year,” Redfin predicted.

Senior Economist Asad Khan spoke about the disadvantages for current sellers. Although the market was steadily growing, with housing prices up 4.1% in January 2024, sellers will likely have to make concessions in this uneven market.

“The balance of power in the U.S. housing market has shifted toward buyers, but a lot of sellers have yet to see or accept the writing on the wall. Many are still holding out hope that their home is the exception and will fetch top dollar,” Khan said. “But as sellers see their homes sit longer on the market and notice fewer buyers coming through on tour, more of them will realize that the market has adjusted and reset their expectations accordingly.”

Nearly half of all properties currently listed, 44%, have been on the market for 6 months or more. Experts caution sellers that holding on to property is not in their best interest. Many single-family properties are overpriced. As potential homeowners are now spoiled for choice, those homes will be more difficult to offload. 

Economic fear and uncertainty are causing many Americans to keep a tight hold on their purse strings. The average salary in the country is $59,428, making the option of buying a half-million-dollar home out of reach for many. The average cost of a home in 2025 is $416,900, which is out of range for the average citizen. Perhaps these new developments will create space in the market for a working-class buyer making smaller wages. Redfin projects the high supply will give an edge to potential. 

“Your purchasing power will increase if home prices fall, wages rise, and mortgage rates remain steady as expected. Homes that would have been out of reach six months ago may come into reach as sellers entertain lower offers and concessions.”

RELATED CONTENT: Former Chicago Bulls Player Luol Deng Surpasses Net Worth Of Top NBA Starts Through Successful Real Estate Company

Virginia City, TIkTok, viral video, antiracism center, university of Minnesota
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 9, 2025

Woman Hurling Racial Slur At Two Black Men Sparks Citywide Response

The video prompted a response from city officials amid the leadership's own history with racist missteps.

A viral TikTok of a woman hurling a racial slur at two Black men in Healdsburg, California has resulted in a city-wide response.

The video showed the woman yelling at the two Black men over their moving truck blocking her driveway. After storming back to her car following her rant, one of the drivers told her that a “simple” ask would have worked.

“I think a simple ‘can you move your truck please’ would have sufficed,” said the man recording the video.

Instead of taking his advice, however, the woman could be heard calling him the n-word. While seemingly unfazed by her racist disrespect, the driver did note that he caught the offense on camera.

“Haha, right. Glad I recorded that,” laughed the man.

Although the woman drove away from the scene, the effect of her racial slur waged on in the Bay Area. City officials in Healdsburg caught wind of the incident as it reached over 2 million views on TikTok.

Healdsburg Mayor Evelyn Mitchell told The Press Democrat that she found the ordeal “appalling.” She also stated that the woman’s behavior goes “against everything” the city stands for.

“As Mayor, and as a longtime member of this community, I know how hard we have worked to build a welcoming and inclusive city,” Mitchell said in the email.

However, the city’s leadership has come under fire for how it handled racial tension before.  Following the previous mayor’s lackluster response amid the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, city officials developed the Healdburg’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion plan. 

The city had implemented DEI-focused strategies to create and improve community equity programming. However, this latest instance of racism has the city reflecting on if change has truly occurred.

Mitchell added, “There is no place for racism or hatred here, and I remain committed to doing my part to help ensure every person in Healdsburg feels safe, respected and valued,” she said.

Since the backlash, the woman has also apologized for using the racial slur. She told KRON4 that she has taken extreme steps to protect her identity amid harassment and death threats. She reportedly dyed her hair purple and removed her social media accounts due to the criticism.

“I’m sorry for what I said. I’m sorry I wanted to hurt (the movers), but it’s not because I’m a horrible person, it’s because I have been struggling recently,” she explained.

The truck driver, however, told the news outlet that he has dealt with racism on this scale before while on the job. Healdsburg’s local NAACP branch, overseeing all of Santa Rosa-Sonoma County, has yet to release a statement.

RELATED CONTENT: Biden Blames Racism And Sexism For Kamala Harris Losing To Trump

NYC, high school
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 9, 2025

High School Coach Terminated After Accusations Of Spanking Student Athletes

Dr. Philip McCrary has been fired

A Georgia high school basketball coach, Dr. Philip McCrary, has been fired after being accused of striking some of the team’s players with a shoe.

According to WSB-TV, McCrary, the former coach of Columbia High School, was relieved after a parent of one of his former players revealed a video that showed him hitting one of the players with his shoe in a hotel room. The footage was allegedly filmed in November 2025 while the team was in the Bahamas for a basketball tournament.

The coach was so revered at the school that they named the gymnasium after him.

The termination occurred after the video was shown to officials from DeKalb County Schools. The parent who submitted the video stated that the incident profoundly impacted her son and that he confided in her after leaving the school. The mother said that it affected his mental health. Neither the mother nor the former student was identified.

“When I saw the video, I was heartbroken,” she said. “I was heartbroken because we trusted this man.”

The mom of the student athlete stated that the video showed McCrary forcing the player to lower his pants while they were in a hotel room. After the player does so, he hits the player several times with his shoe.

She then said that McCrary asked, “Why is it happening?” And the boy’s response was, ‘Because I invited a girl up to the room.”

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

She also revealed that the player wasn’t the only one the coach hit and that her son witnessed the incident as he was in the room when it happened.

When the media outlet contacted a spokesperson from the school district, they reportedly stated that they couldn’t comment on personnel matters, while saying that the safety of the students is the district’s highest priority. The person also confirmed that McCrary is no longer an employee at Columbia High School.

RELATED CONTENT: Pro Soccer Player Hides As Loved Ones Kidnapped Amid Increasing Crime In Ecuador, Family Safely Returned

Detroit, Good Samaritan
by Ahsan Washington

June 9, 2025

10 Dope Things To Do With Dad For Father’s Day

Celebrate the essence of Black fatherhood

Father’s Day 2025 offers a unique opportunity to honor Black fatherhood through culturally rich and community-centered events nationwide. From soulful brunches to vibrant festivals, BLACK ENTERPRISE has selected 10 standout events across several states that celebrate the essence of Black fatherhood.

Father’s Day Celebration: Men Who Lead with Legacy, Phoenix, Arizona 

If you’re in Phoenix, check out the “Men Who Lead with Legacy” celebration happening on June 15th! It’s not just your typical Father’s Day event, this one is all about celebrating those dads and father figures who have really made a difference in their communities. It’s a cool chance to reflect, show some love, and maybe even get inspired by these everyday heroes.

Superfine: Tailoring Black Style Exhibition at The Met, New York City

The “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibit is worth checking out with dad. Monica Miller and Andrew Bolton put together something special here. The exhibit dives into ways Black men have used fashion not just to look good but as a way to resist, survive, and express themselves throughout history. The way they’ve showcased the evolution of Black fashion is impressive, so much history and meaning packed into fabric and style choices. Visiting this Superfine is a profound way to honor Black fatherhood and culture.

Father’s Day SundayFunday at THRōW Social, Washington, D.C. 

Searching for a Father’s Day spot in D.C.? THRōW Social has got you covered. Treat dad to a day he’ll actually enjoy, where he’ll receive a free brew just for hitting a bullseye. They’re serving up Sunday brunch, live tunes, and access to their awesome rooftop bar. There are tons of games to either bond with your old man or watch him hilariously compete with the family. Head to the heart of D.C. and make some memories!

Reclaim Father’s Day Weekend Summit, Chicago, Illinois 

Check out the Reclaim Father’s Day Weekend Summit happening at the DuSable Museum. The museum will kick off with a conference called “Real Men, Real Talk” where guys can actually talk about stuff that matter to them. It’s not just your typical conference event. Dads will be diving into real issues like mental health, how to build wealth, and ways to make our communities stronger. It’s perfect if you’re looking to take yourself or go with your dad to bond and connect with other dads who get what you’re going through.

Fade to Black Arts Festival, Houston, Texas

Don’t miss the Fade to Black Arts Festival hitting Houston June 8-14. The event will run seven days and is packed with Black artistry and talent. It is the perfect timing for Father’s Day weekend. Grab dad (or the kids) and dive into some culture together.

Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival, Atlanta, Georgia 

Check out the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival happening June 14-15 at Piedmont Park. It’s going to be lit. There will be two different stages for performances. The Black History Parade is a main attraction. You’ll see everything from dance crews to talented creatives from around the city. It’s such a perfect way to celebrate the awesome Black dads in our lives while soaking up meaningful culture and history.

Father’s Day All-White Celebration, Detroit, Michigan 

Detroit, mark your calendars for June 15, an All-White Father’s Day bash at Riverside Marina in Detroit. Bring dad along for a day that’s all about celebrating fathers who deserve recognition. The marina provides a gorgeous backdrop for mingling, making memories, and having a blast together.

Father’s Day Classic Basketball Tournament, San Antonio, Texas

If your dad is a basketball fan, this is the perfect event to share with him on Father’s Day weekend. Check out the Father’s Day Classic Basketball Tournament happening in San Antonio June 14-15. The 3-games-in-1-day format, means it’s plenty of action. There will be divisions for everyone from second-graders up to varsity ballers. All participating teams get custom championship rings.

Father’s Day Classic: June 14th – 15th, 2025

Legends Live Here: Father’s Day Edition, Miami, Florida 

Heads up, Miami dads. There’s a Father’s Day event happening June 7 at Charles Hadley Park called “Legends Live Here: Father’s Day Edition.” A few local businesses (Essence of Beauty Lounge, GoPoshMiami) teamed up with Father’s Uplifting Kids to put together something special for all the fathers out there. The best part is that the event is holding a “Dad’s in the Spotlight” session where fathers can just talk, share stories, and lift each other up.

Candlelight Concert Experience, Los Angeles, California 

The Candlelight Concert Experience is magical. These aren’t your average shows, they’re held in jaw-dropping locations like Griffith Observatory and the gorgeous Griffith Park with its sweeping city views. So, if you and your dad are looking for something special to do with Dad this Father’s Day, This might just be it! They’ve even got a Bridgerton-inspired performance if your dad is into that. It’s the kind of night you and your dad will be talking about for years to come.

RELATED CONTENT: Black Bourbons And Whiskeys To Cop For Father’s Day

Saint Augustine University, Commencement, HBCU
by Kandiss Edwards

June 9, 2025

The Power Of Giving Back: Georgia Grad’s Free Labor Inspires $200,000 In Life-Changing Donations

Mykale Baker says he didn’t clock in the night of his graduation. Without pay, he just wanted to be of service to his Burger King team. 

Mykale Baker, a Georgia teen, went to work on graduation night. Without a uniform or name tag, Baker went to work, wearing only a graduation stole and medal. He has since been gifted with over $200K in donations towards his future.

After graduating from Mill Creek High School, Baker stopped at Burger King, his place of employment, to get a late-night meal. Noticing that his coworkers were struggling to keep up with orders, he hopped on the food line to help. 

While in the drive-thru, Maria Mendoza noticed the upbeat high school graduate making burgers with a smile. She took a video of the teen to share not only his joy but his work ethic with TikTok. Her initial video highlighted Mykale, who sacrificed a night dedicated to his own personal accomplishments to help his coworkers. 

Mendoza’s caption was simple: “This young man deserves a scholarship.”

@mariabonita528

This young man deserves a scholarship!!!! @Carlos_Eduardo_Espina @Burger King #daculaga #burgerking #youngkid #graduated #hardworking #pesopluma #nuevavida

♬ NUEVA VIDA – Peso Pluma

Baker said he didn’t start working because he wanted to earn money. Without pay, he joined the burger line to serve his team. 

“I wasn’t even clocked in,” Baker told CBS News. “I just put gloves on and said, ‘What do you all need help with?’

May 22, the video of Baker was posted to TikTok and quickly gained traction. Mendoza set up a GoFundMe for the new graduate, and supporters showed up and out. Some questioned whether Baker would receive the funds, but within a few days, Baker met with Mendoza at Burger King and informed the teen that he was $6,000 richer. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@mariabonita528/video/7508887480758766878?_r=1&_t=ZT-8x3BoArUrLa

“I like helping people and not expecting anything back from it,” Baker told CBS News. “That’s just me.” “I knew that all the good I put out there is going to come back to me somehow,” he continued. 

Since the initial video, the GoFundMe for Mykale has raised $200,664. Burger King has also awarded both Mykale and Mendoza’s daughters with $10,000 scholarships. Indeed, all the good he put out into the world has come back to him. Baker initially intended to take a gap year before attending college due to financial constraints. It seems that will no longer stand in his way. The selfless young man is planning to enroll in Gwinnett Technical College in the fall.

When asked what he would like to pursue, he said “auto mechanics” without hesitation. 

RELATED CONTENT: HBCU Graduate Launches Sneaker Academy To Introduce Youth to STEM Careers

Coco Gauff, top earning
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 9, 2025

Coco Gauff Joins GOAT Ranks While Brushing Off A Hater At French Open

This is Gauff's second Grand Slam title.

A new tennis champion has been crowned. Coco Gauff now joins the ranks of Althea Gibson and Serena Williams as the third Black woman in history to win the French Open.

Not only is Gauff’s accomplishment a serve for Black history, but also a win for the United States. She has become the first American woman to win the competition, widely known as Roland-Garros, since Williams in 2015. Gibson became the first Black woman to do so in 1956.

Gauff secured her victory on June 7 by beating the No. 1-ranked Aryna Sabalenka. She overcame a deficit on a windy day at the courts to become the French Open’s latest champion at just 21 years old. Gauff previously scored another grand slam win, overpowering Sabalenka during the 2023 U.S. Open.

The accomplishment brought Gauff to the tennis court floor in shock and amazement. Following the win, Gauff told reporters how she did not initially believe that she could take home the trophy.

“I didn’t think, honestly, that I could do it,” Gauff said on the courts, as reported by Forbes. “But I’m gonna quote Tyler, The Creator right here. He said, ‘If I ever told you I had a doubt inside me, I must be lying.’ I’d like to leave that with you guys. I think I was lying to myself, and I definitely could do it. Shout out to Tyler.”

Her competitor, Sabalenka, also did not think highly of Gauff’s game. The tennis player for Belarus caught flak for degrading Gauff’s performance in the match.

“She won the match not because she played incredible, just because I made all those mistakes,” Sabalenka said.

Sabalenka then referenced another competitor, Iga Świątek, whom she believes would also have won. Upon hearing Sabalenka’s rebuff of her skills, Gauff brushed off the surly comment.

“I mean, I don’t agree with that. I’m here sitting here [as the champion],” she responded. “No shade to Iga or anything, but last time I played her I won in straight sets. I don’t think that’s a fair thing to say, because anything can really happen.”

Gauff also kept things focused on her own supporters, who helped her earn another championship. Despite her 2023 U.S. Open win, Gauff had struggled to reach the finish line, also losing during the 2022 French Open finals.

“I’d like to thank my parents,” Gauff said. “You guys have done a lot for me, from washing my clothes to keeping me grounded and giving me the belief that I can do it. You guys probably believe in me more than I do myself. I really appreciate and love you guys. To my brothers at home, you’re the reason I do this. You inspire me more than you know. To all my family at home, thank you.”

Now, she can celebrate her newest accolade that has made her a tennis legend, just like Gibson and Williams.

“I’d like to thank my team. I had three finals, but I got the most important one. I guess that’s all that matters,” added Gauff. “You guys have been a joy to be around, and you guys are individually truly great people. Pushing me and also making it fun. I know sometimes I’m not the easiest, and I can be so serious. But you remind me there’s more to life than tennis. That’s what makes me play better on the court. Thank you individually, to all of you. I appreciate you guys so much.”

Gauff will take home $2.9 million in prize money for her historic feat.

RELATED CONTENT: Grit Meets Grown Man: David Yurman Taps NBA Stars Carmelo Anthony And Jaylen Brown For Bold New Chain Campaign

Score, dating apps
by Kandiss Edwards

June 9, 2025

Westside Works Offers Free Certification Courses In Technology

There are four concentrations offered in the program

An Atlanta job hub is offering free technology training for Georgia residents.

The Westside Works program is supported by the nonprofit Per Scholas. Per Scholas has facilitated tuition-free job training for over 30 years and is working with this initiative to continue bring to opportunity to the city of Atlanta. 

Per Scholas makes gaining new skills and “unlocking potential” accessible by offering multiple online certification programs. The initiative also connects students with mentors and potential employers.

The four concentrations offered in the program are: IT Support, Software Engineering, AWS re/Start, Salesforce administrator or IT Data Center Technician. 

While prior knowledge in the respective technology fields is not required, it is encouraged. Applicants should be aware that not all are eligible, as each candidate must divulge current income and go through a multi-tiered admissions process. 

Admissions Process: 

  1. Eligibility Form: Confirming basic information and gauging interest of applicants.
  2. Admissions Overview: an opportunity for applicants to preview the program’s offerings.
  3. Assessments: A general knowledge in your area of interest may be required.
  4. Behavioral Interview: Staff will evaluate applicants to make sure there is alignment in potential students and their chosen program.
  5. Interview Questions: A written interview query that will be turned in before the person-to-person evaluation.
  6. Pre-work: Some locations require applicants show their commitment and aptitude to grasp the material, as some programs last no more than 15 weeks.
  7. Admissions: If all goes well, in this step, the transition from applicant to student begins. 

Multiple students have attested to the training and given testimonials praising the program. Stephanie Ogwo spoke with 11 Alive about the effectiveness of the program and its support structure.

“Some of the things that stood out to me that made it something that I was really interested in doing is that in addition to what you learn you have that aspect of well-rounded support in terms of professional and personal development,” Ogwo said.

Ogwo’s previous career was in the shipping industry. As the industry became less reliable, she began to look for new opportunities. As such, Ogwo enrolled in the 15-week software engineering course and has since found full-time employment. 

Atlanta was recently named the “Smartest City” due to its growth in technology infrastructure and tech careers. The city has the fourth-highest internet upload and download speeds among major U.S. cities. The city ranks third in IoT companies per capita and fifth in AI companies per capita. Additionally, Atlanta has 643 tech jobs per 10,000 people, the seventh-highest rate in the nation. Pro Scholas is adding to those numbers one free training at a time.

RELATED CONTENT: ATL Keeps Winning: Named No.1 ‘Smartest’; And ‘Most Educated’ City

tiktok , Black history, Harriet Tubman,
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 9, 2025

Black TikToker Claims Harriet Tubman Didn’t Exist, Internet Proceeds To Clown Her

The viral video caused a lot of uproar on social media.

In the latest weird internet trend, some Black TikTokers have asserted that Harriet Tubman is not real.

A TikToker went viral for alleging that the abolitionist did not actually exist. As many know, Tubman is a revered figure in American history for helping hundreds of enslaved people gain freedom through her own personal escape missions and contributions to the Abolitionist movement.

According to The Root, a content creator named Ce Chronicles alleged that Tubman was actually a U.S. government spy named Araminta Ross. In the since-deleted video, she also emphasized Sojourner Truth of having a fake name as well.

“They want us to look up and idolize these people, oh well, they look like just like me so I must look up to them.’ Stop that sh*t immediately,” explained the influencer.

Her explanation led to other fake news-ers to share their own doubts on the authenticity of the Underground Railroad.

“Hear me out, that shit does not make sense. Why would you be taking slaves underground in tunnel,” questioned one user in another video.

Another added, “Harriet Tubman wasn’t even her name. I keep telling y’all America is a stage. These people are playing characters. Everybody for some odd reason has to change their name.”

However, the internet immediately began to clap back with facts. While Tubman’s real name was indeed Ross, her work and legacy remain the same. Furthermore, there is definitive proof through historical documents and newspaper clippings that show Tubman actually helped free enslaved people, and through the Underground Railroad.

A more knowledgeable TikToker, named Wickd Confessions, got online to inform users about promoting untrue narratives about the Black historical figures.

@wickdconfections The Harriet Tubman Conspiracy 🚫🕵️‍♀️ | Just because you haven’t learned something doesn’t mean it’s fake! Harriet Tubman was a real hero—don’t let misinformation or a knowledge gap rewrite history. #HarrietTubman #DebunkingConspiracies #BlackHistory #FactCheck #HistoryMatters #AntiIntellectualism #tiktokpartner #blacktiktok ♬ original sound – Queen of WaterTok 👸🏾💦

“Just because you don’t know history doesn’t mean it didn’t happen,” shared the influencer.

“The social media has given everyone a mic, but volume is not the same as knowledge. Harriet Tubman’s legacy is not up for debate.”

The influencer then clarified that Tubman’s name change was not due to conspiracy, but actual survival. She noted how the abolitionist’s work put her in danger. The name switch honored her loved ones while keeping her identity safe.

The woman added, “Her story is not some rumor passed down. her story has been preserved in letters, interviews, archives…you not knowing doesn’t make it fiction, it just means it’s a gap in your knowledge.”

She also emphasized that, contrary to some users’ belief, the Underground Railroad was not an actual railroad.

Fortunately, Ce Chronicles later apologized for the ignorance.

@cechronicles I gotta keep it real #cechronicles #harriettubman #blacktiktok #keepitreal ♬ original sound – CC

“Honestly as a Black American I should have been more responsible with what the f–k I said,” explained Ce.

However, she did note that her stance came from a suspicion and concern of how Black history is taught in classrooms. Despite this, commenters noted how this responsibility falls on the Black community to ensure this history is being told accurately.

“I appreciate her taking accountability, but all of you saying we weren’t taught the truth,” wrote one commenter. “There are a plethora of books, articles, etc., and it’s our responsibility to learn what we were not taught. Read before you speak on a subject with such conviction.”

high school teen, mayor, Birmingham
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 9, 2025

Recent Birmingham High School Graduate Announces Mayoral Run

Brandon Moss, 18, is running for mayor of Fairfield.

An 18-year-old high school graduate, Brandon Moss, is about to attend college, but he will also be running for mayor in Alabama.

According to AL.com, Moss, who received his high school diploma last month, is throwing his hat into the race for mayor of Fairfield. The young man graduated from Ramsay High School in Birmingham and hopes to be the mayor in an election that will take place August 26.

He is one of several candidates, including Councilman Herman Carnes, Councilman Cedric Norman, former Midfield councilman and Fairfield native James Reasor, and financial consultant Michael Williams, who are hoping to replace current mayor Eddie Penny, who announced he is not running for re-election in this year’s race.

Instead of relaxing and enjoying the summer before college starts, Moss has committed to becoming Fairfield’s next mayor.

“I decided to do this right out of high school because I felt like I could be the change that I want to see in my city,” Moss told the media outlet. “Fairfield for far too long has not had an innovative thinker, and we need somebody who is able to connect our next generations and our past generations.”

Although Moss is trying to flex some political muscle right away, he has plans to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham to major in political science and public administration.

If there is a Mayor Moss, the high school graduate has stated that he would be strategic about recruiting businesses and will hold property owners accountable for their buildings. He also promises to speak to residents about their needs and work with businesses to entice them to come back to town.

“We could bring stores back, but we have to work with those stores to bring them back into the community,” Moss said. “Our citizens need something that’s going to be with them long-term.”

Based on 2024 Census numbers, Fairfield has about 9,500 residents, but that number has been declining as of late.

RECENT CONTENT: Arkansas Teen Becomes Youngest Black Mayor In US

Naomi,WWE
by Daniel Johnson

June 9, 2025

Naomi Makes WWE History As First Black Woman To Win Money In The Bank Match

The victory marks a major milestone in her career.

Naomi’s hard work and perseverance have finally paid off. On June 7, she made history by winning a thrilling Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match, becoming the first Black woman to earn the title of Ms. Money in the Bank. The victory marks a major milestone in her career, giving her the coveted briefcase that guarantees a championship match anytime, anywhere, against the titleholder of her choice.

For Naomi, defeating Rhea Ripley, Alexa Bliss, Stephanie Vaquer, Roxanne Perez, and Giulia to capture her first opportunity at a singles title run in years, signifies what WWE brass believes in Naomi and her recently rebranded look, theme music, and attitude, only a few years after she and her former tag team partner, Sasha Banks (Banks is now at AEW wrestling as Mercedes Moné), walked out of the company during a May 16, 2022, episode of Raw.

The two Black women walked out over frustrations that they, the women’s world tag team champions at the time, were being wasted by WWE’s creative department, which at that point, effectively meant Vince McMahon.

Naomi’s heel turn has resulted in some of the best character work of her career, and as she told Variety ahead of the Premium Live Event, remaining in character for much of it, she felt like it was time for her character to evolve into something a little bit darker and more aggressive, especially after the storyline involving her attack on Jade Cargill.

“I’d been thinking about this for a while, about where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do if I was going to change,” Naomi explained to the outlet. “I wanted to do something completely opposite and outside of the box, from the bright, the glow, the neon colors, and the bright, bubbly stuff. With what I did to Jade, and leaving a crime scene, it popped into my head – oh man, this is perfect. Caution tape is universal. Everybody knows what that means when they see it.”

Although happy with her new look and persona, Naomi remained somewhat apprehensive about how her character would be received by the fans, but the reaction to her so far has done nothing but reassure her that she made the right call.

“It’s everything that I wanted it to be,” she remarked. “It feels good to be able to change the audience perspective of me in such a quick period of time. That’s something I was definitely nervous about, because they’ve seen me as a good character and a ‘good girl’ for so long. To just completely switch it up – you never know how or if it’s going to work, or whether or not fans are going to buy it. That was a big challenge for me.”

Naomi continued, “To see the reaction and the live response, that’s what I care most about. The fans are engaging with me and interacting with me during the show, that’s the key. I definitely feel the energy, so I’m gonna keep doing what I’m doing, which is being absolutely nasty.”

Post-match, Naomi joined Big E on WWE’s post-Money in the Bank show and the former member of The New Day, who has watched Naomi over the past 16 years, gave her a bouquet of verbal flowers regarding the work she has put in and what she deserves.

“I have known this woman for 16 years and to see you have your best run now, to see everything you’ve been through over the last several years, to see your growth, to see you go to TNA, be a World Champion, to see everything you’ve put up and endured. And I know that the people and I, we don’t even know the half of everything that you had to deal with.”

Naomi, who was taken aback by the kind words from Big E, thanked him before admonishing the crowd for chanting that she deserved this moment after she appeared to nearly cry while sitting at the desk.

For Naomi, coming from feeling underutilized by WWE’s top brass to now being seen by McMahon’s son-in-law, and Chief Creative Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque, as the next women’s world champion has to be validating, and the rest of the women’s roster had better proceed with caution unless they want to meet the business end of Naomi’s caution-tape-wrapped boots.

RELATED CONTENT: WWE Star Michin Shows Off Her HBCU Alumna Pride Prior to ‘Saturday Night Main Event

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