Chelsea Green competed in the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble while nursing a significant facial injury, entering the match with a cracked nose and broken lip. Concerned that further impact could force her to undergo surgery, she asked fellow wrestlers to avoid striking her face during the intense contest.
The WWE star revealed these details on the Netflix docuseries WWE Unreal, providing a rare glimpse into the risks wrestlers take when competing despite injuries. Green’s careful approach was a response to a recent accident that had compromised her ability to absorb more punishment safely.
Green Describes Injury and Precautions Taken Before the Royal Rumble
A week before the Royal Rumble, Green suffered a harsh spill entering the ring, where the bottom rope caused damage to her lip and nose, leaving her with a cracked nasal bone and extensive bruising under her mouth reaching into her nose. Aware that any further hits could escalate the injury, she took measures to protect herself.
“A week ago [A week before Royal Rumble], I took kind of a spill in the ring. The very first spot, me going into the ring, the bottom rope busted my lip, busted my nose. So, I’ve got a cracked nose on this side here. I’ve got bruising all the way up underneath my mouth, all the way to inside of my nose,” Green explained candidly. —Chelsea Green, WWE Star
“But if I get hit in the nose, I have to go into surgery. So, we’re protecting it. We’re protecting the nose. We do not need another surgery. We’re just gonna stay clear of this side. We’ve told the girls, ‘Do not go near this side of my face.’” —Chelsea Green, WWE Star
Performance Highlights Despite Injury
Even while dealing with pain and the risk of worsening her injury, Chelsea Green put on a notable performance during the Royal Rumble. She eliminated competitors B-Fab and Lash Legend, demonstrating her resilience. However, her run ended when she was accidentally eliminated by ally Piper Niven amidst the chaotic action of the match.
The event itself featured several major moments, including Charlotte Flair entering at #27 and ultimately winning the Royal Rumble. Flair’s victory earned her a title shot at WrestleMania 41, where she was defeated by Tiffany Stratton.
Physical Toll of Wrestling Highlighted by Chelsea’s Story
Green’s experience highlights the physical toll that WWE performers endure, especially when competing while injured. Wrestling matches, particularly high-intensity ones like the Royal Rumble, demand not just skill but also significant physical endurance and mental toughness.
Chelsea Green’s proactive communication with her peers to avoid further injury underlines the delicate balance between entertainment and safety in the wrestling industry. Her choice to compete despite the cracked nose and busted lip draws attention to the sacrifices wrestlers make to deliver memorable performances to fans.
Other Notable WWE Storylines and Injuries
Alongside Green’s Royal Rumble situation, recent WWE storylines reflect a dramatic and difficult period for many wrestlers. John Cena’s unexpected heel turn at the Elimination Chamber PLE, hitting then-champion Cody Rhodes, stunned audiences and sparked speculation about his possible return to a fan-favorite role at SummerSlam.
Meanwhile, Rhea Ripley disclosed the need for surgery due to an AC joint sprain that sidelined her for several months in 2024, showing how injuries continue to impact WWE talent.
Other backstage stories involve rivalries such as the long-standing tension between CM Punk and Triple H, which may have influenced Punk’s departure from WWE in 2014. Additionally, speculation surrounds Cody Rhodes’ potential heel turn at SummerSlam 2025.
Implications for WWE and Chelsea Green’s Future
The spotlight on Chelsea Green’s injury and protective measures during the Royal Rumble could lead to increased awareness and precaution around wrestler safety, especially as performers face pressure to maintain high-energy appearances despite health concerns. Preventing further harm and avoiding surgery likely helped Green continue her career without extended downtime.
For WWE fans and the wrestling community, these revelations deepen understanding of the physical challenges wrestlers endure and the importance of communication and care behind the scenes. Chelsea Green’s story serves as a cautionary example of balancing competitive spirit with health considerations.
