Liv Morgan: ‘I Don’t Need To Prove Myself by Defending This Championship’

WWE Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan joined ESPN’s First Take earlier today to promote her upcoming title bout against Iyo Sky at this weekend’s WWE SummerSlam 2026. During the interview, she addressed how she’s reached 100+ days as champion without defending her title. Below are some highlights:

Liv Morgan on Her Shoulder Injury Recovery

“Well, recovery was not easy. I dislocated my shoulder. I tore my lab, my rotator cuff. I tore my bicep. I was out for about 6 months rehabbing every single day. But I am back and better than ever, feeling 100% ready to walk into SummerSlam weekend and walk out. Still the greatest women’s world champion of all time.”

On Her Confidence Heading Into SummerSlam for Her First Title Defense

“Yeah, I’m feeling great. And you know, I’m actually glad that you brought that up. All these girls were too scared to come after me, as they should be. These girls are scared, but they’re not dumb. I am that iconic that I’ve been champion 100-plus days and don’t need to prove myself by defending this championship. But I am excited for the opportunity to walk into SummerSlam and remind Iyo Sky and the rest of the world exactly who I am and what I bring to the table.”

Her Expectations for the Matchup

“Yeah, they could expect me to fight for my life. Iyo Sky is one of the best in the world. She’s very unpredictable as far as what she can do in the ring. You never know what you’re going to get from her. So, it’s hard to prepare. So, I am going in there as tenacious and ready to fight as ever. And so, I know she’s going to bring her best. I’m going to bring my best. Um, I do have a few tricks up my sleeve that I don’t think she’s prepared for, but they can expect a very hard-hitting battle as you and I always bring.”

On Not Being Worried About Dominik Mysterio vs. Danhausen

“I’m not. I’m not. Dominik is called Dirty Dom for a reason. Dominik has some tricks up his sleeve that Danhausen should be worried about. Um, Dan Hson is a thief at the end of the day. And so, Dominic is rightfully going to win this human monies on a pole match, get our $100,000, hopefully uncurse The Judgment Day, and walk out of SummerSlam victorious. You know, Dominik and I have very good track records when it comes to SummerSlam. We are always victorious, and this year is going to be no different.”

Liv Morgan defends her title this weekend against Iyo Sky at WWE SummerSlam 2026: Night 1. The premium live event is being held at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It will air live on the ESPN App in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit ESPN First Take with an h/t to 411mania.com for the transcription.