Australian professional wrestler Rhea Ripley, born on 11 October 1996 in Adelaide, South Australia, has made a significant impact in the world of WWE, showcasing her prowess and determination.
Ripley’s journey in WWE began with her participation in the first Mae Young Classic in 2017, where she advanced to the second round before being defeated by Dakota Kai.
However, it was her debut on the NXT brand on 25 October 2017 in a battle royal for the NXT Women’s Championship that marked the start of her remarkable ascent in WWE.
Rhea Ripley: The Rise of a Champion
Ripley’s career trajectory took a sharp upward turn on the 22 March 2021 episode of Raw, where she made her main roster debut following incredible runs in both NXT UK and NXT.
This pivotal moment saw her challenging Asuka for the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 37, a challenge that Asuka accepted.
Ripley’s victory over Asuka on the second night of WrestleMania 37, where she captured the Raw Women’s Championship, was not just a win but a statement to the wrestling world about her capabilities and potential.
Setting Records and Breaking Barriers
Rhea Ripley’s achievements in WWE have been nothing short of extraordinary. She has held multiple championships, including the Raw Women’s Championship, WWE SmackDown Women’s/Women’s World Championship, WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship, NXT Women’s Championship, and NXT UK Women’s Championship.
Notably, Ripley won the Women’s Royal Rumble in 2023, entering at #1 and setting a record for the longest time in a women’s Royal Rumble match at 1:01:08.
She also became the first woman to win the rumble at #1, joining an elite group of wrestlers who have achieved this feat.
Rhea Ripley: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Ripley’s presence in WWE extends beyond her in-ring achievements. She is a member of the stable The Judgment Day alongside Finn Bálor, Damian Priest, and “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio. Her engagement to AEW wrestler Buddy Matthews adds another dimension to her personal life, connecting her to a broader spectrum of the wrestling community.
Accolades and Recognition
Rhea Ripley’s talent and impact on the wrestling world have been recognized through various accolades. She was named the Breakthrough Wrestler of the Year by CBS Sports in 2019 and ranked #2 on ESPN’s list of the 30 best Pro Wrestlers Under 30.
Pro Wrestling Illustrated placed her at #11 out of the top 100 female wrestlers in their PWI Women’s 100 in 2020. Sports Illustrated also recognised her prowess, ranking her #7 on the list of top 10 women’s wrestlers in 2019.
The Future of Women’s Wrestling
Rhea Ripley’s journey in WWE is a testament to her resilience, skill, and determination. Her debut and subsequent rise in WWE have not only changed her career but have also had a significant impact on women’s wrestling.
As she continues to compete and achieve new heights, Ripley’s influence and legacy in the wrestling world are undeniable.
FAQs
- When did Rhea Ripley make her WWE main roster debut? Rhea Ripley made her WWE main roster debut on the 22 March 2021 episode of Raw.
- What championships has Rhea Ripley won in WWE? Ripley has won the Raw Women’s Championship, WWE SmackDown Women’s/Women’s World Championship, WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship, NXT Women’s Championship, and NXT UK Women’s Championship.
- What record did Rhea Ripley set in the Women’s Royal Rumble? She set the record for the longest time in a women’s Royal Rumble match at 1:01:08 and became the first woman to win the rumble at #1.
- Is Rhea Ripley engaged? Yes, she is engaged to AEW wrestler Buddy Matthews.
- What stable is Rhea Ripley a part of in WWE? Rhea Ripley is a member of the stable The Judgment Day.
