Rhea Ripley began 2025 as the newly crowned Women’s World Champion, marking her victory on WWE RAW’s debut episode on Netflix. However, IYO SKY unexpectedly claimed the title later in the year during The Road To WrestleMania by decisively defeating Ripley in a singles match on the red brand.
Ripley and SKY Join Forces Against The Kabuki Warriors
What initially started as a fierce rivalry between Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY over the Women’s World Championship transformed into a surprising alliance in late 2025. The duo teamed up to face The Kabuki Warriors, a faction that turned against Ripley following SKY’s growing friendship with her. This break in loyalty led to Asuka and Kairi Sane betraying their teammate. At the Crown Jewel event in Perth, Ripley and SKY overcame The Kabuki Warriors and sustained their partnership moving forward.
Rhea Ripley Captures Women’s Tag Team Titles on Netflix Anniversary
On January 5, to celebrate the one-year anniversary of WWE RAW’s Netflix presence, Rhea Ripley secured the Women’s Tag Team Championship together with IYO SKY by defeating The Kabuki Warriors, further establishing their dominance on the red brand.
IYO SKY Issues Apology to Rhea Ripley’s Jealous ‘Girlfriend’ Cathy Kelley
During an interview with Ring The Belle, IYO SKY was confronted about an unexpected source of jealousy beyond The Kabuki Warriors. The host highlighted backstage interviewer Cathy Kelley’s displeasure regarding SKY’s relationship with Rhea Ripley. This stems from Kelley and Ripley’s playful social media act portraying them as romantic partners, which SKY humorously addressed.
“Yes, yes. You’re right. I think she [Cathy Kelley] is upset and jealous with me, maybe? She wants to jump on Rhea [Ripley] too. I just want to say—Sorry, Cathy!” IYO SKY said.
Upcoming Matches and Potential Showdowns at the Women’s Elimination Chamber
Looking ahead, Rhea Ripley has secured her spot in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match set for February 28 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. This high-stakes event features six women competing for a title opportunity. The outcome will determine who faces Liv Morgan, the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble winner, should Morgan decline the challenge. It remains uncertain whether IYO SKY will also compete in the Chamber alongside Ripley, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.
