A recent clip from WWE RAW featuring Rhea Ripley captured wide attention online, prompting a response from her husband and AEW wrestler, Buddy Matthews. The segment aired during the closing moments of RAW, which included a tribute to AJ Styles. Styles delivered a heartfelt speech thanking the crowd for their continuous support over his career. Soon after, The Undertaker made a surprise appearance to announce Styles’ induction into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
Following the show, a video surfaced on Instagram showing Ripley appreciating a fan who had brought a poster celebrating her persona, the Eradicator. The poster included a taunting message directed at Buddy Matthews:
Buddy Matthews can’t take us all.
This prompted Matthews to reply directly to the fan’s post with a confident comeback.
“I CAN… I WILL!,” Buddy wrote
Buddy Matthews Explains Reason for Ongoing AEW Absence
Buddy Matthews has been notably absent from AEW programming since February 2025, causing fans and analysts to wonder about his status. Despite his silence on AEW television, Matthews has remained active on social media by posting intense training footage, which added to the speculation about his future in wrestling. In December 2025, he addressed his situation in response to a fan inquiry on Instagram regarding his recovery and possible return.
Matthews acknowledged that he had hoped to be back in the ring already but clarified that his rehabilitation has been difficult and slower than anticipated due to nerve-related complications.
“It’s been a long process! Still having nerve issues with a lot of numbness! But accepted that it’s gonna take time. Really thought I’d have returned to the ring by now but can only control what I can,” Matthews wrote.
His ongoing recovery leaves his return date uncertain, though fans remain hopeful for a comeback in 2026.
Why the Viral Clip and Response Matter for WWE and AEW Fans
The viral clip featuring Rhea Ripley not only highlighted her connection with fans but also stirred conversations between rival promotions through her husband’s involvement. Buddy Matthews’ assertive reply demonstrates his competitive mindset and desire to engage within wrestling’s heated narratives, particularly when it involves WWE and AEW dynamics.
Additionally, AJ Styles’ announced induction into the WWE Hall of Fame adds another layer of prestige and nostalgia to this period in wrestling, linking legends from different eras and companies. Meanwhile, Matthews’ ongoing injury battle reminds fans of the physical toll wrestling demands, contributing to an atmosphere of both anticipation and concern among followers of both WWE and AEW.
