Rhea Ripley continues to stand out as one of WWE’s top women wrestlers, maintaining her dominance over rising stars like Stephanie Vaquer. On September 20, Vaquer captured the vacant Women’s World Championship by defeating IYO SKY at Wrestlepalooza, yet legendary wrestling figure Jim Cornette insists Ripley remains the premier female talent on WWE’s main roster.
Jim Cornette’s Perspective on WWE’s Leading Women
Stephanie Vaquer’s victory at Wrestlepalooza was impressive, achieved with a high-risk Spiral Tap from the top rope. Despite this accomplishment, Cornette expressed on his podcast, Jim Cornette’s Drive-Thru, that Ripley’s established presence and skill set keep her ahead in WWE. Cornette admired Vaquer’s athleticism but doubted her current ability to truly challenge Ripley’s status.
“It was a wonderful f***ing flippy thing off the top rope. I wouldn’t have been lying there underneath that thing. There was not very much margin for error at all, but I don’t think Rhea Ripley has to watch out for anything unless Stephanie Vaquer suddenly learns how to f***ing act like a movie star and cut a goddam incredible promo.”
– Jim Cornette, Wrestling Booker and Manager
Cornette’s comments highlight how vital he considers not just wrestling ability, but also the capacity to engage in compelling promos. While Vaquer impressed in the ring, Cornette believes she must develop stronger microphone skills to compete with Ripley’s well-rounded performances.
“This is wrestling. We need to want to see you fight, not just go out and hop around. Everybody’s doing that these days. But that was my summation of [IYO SKY vs. Stephanie Vaquer], I’m sorry. I’m sure it was [a good match]. Why do I care?”
– Jim Cornette, Wrestling Booker and Manager
Rhea Ripley’s Journey in WWE
Ripley debuted in WWE’s 2017 Mae Young Classic and quickly became renowned for her in-ring prowess. At only 28, she has grown into a top contender on RAW through her involvement in storylines with major stars like Randy Orton and Rey Mysterio. Her career took a significant leap in 2022 when she joined The Judgment Day faction, and after departing that group in 2024, she has solidified her standing as a popular and powerful singles competitor.
Comparing Ripley’s Experience With Vaquer’s Rise
While Vaquer’s recent Women’s World Championship win marks a promising moment for her career, her profile remains less established compared to Ripley’s, who has earned respect among fans and critics alike. Cornette’s focus on wrestling storytelling highlights the demands on performers to combine athletic skill with authentic character work and promo delivery. Ripley’s proven ability to excel in both areas sets her apart from emerging talents on the roster.
The Significance of Rhea Ripley’s Continued WWE Dominance
Jim Cornette’s assessment underlines the importance of versatility for wrestlers striving for top status in WWE. Ripley’s dominance serves as a benchmark for new competitors like Vaquer, tasked with developing not only athleticism but also charisma and presence. As Vaquer adjusts to her role as Women’s World Champion, fans and analysts will watch closely to see if she can build on her in-ring skills and elevate her promo work to challenge Ripley’s position.
With Ripley maintaining her hold as a leading star, the competition among WWE’s female roster intensifies, promising dynamic storylines and rivalries. The evolution of Vaquer and others aiming to reach Ripley’s level will shape the future landscape of women’s wrestling in WWE.
