Despite her years of experience in WWE, Rhea Ripley revealed that she still experiences the same pre-match anxiety she felt when she first joined the promotion in 2017. Now a leading figure in the women’s division and the current WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion alongside IYO SKY, Ripley admitted that the nerves have not faded, even as her career has soared. This ongoing tension highlights the intense pressure that remains part of her daily routine, despite her growing success.
How Ripley Manages Her Pre-Match Preparation Today
In an interview on ESPN SportsCenter, Ripley discussed the changes in her preparation process over the years. Early in her WWE tenure, she had more time to build up her mental focus before stepping into the ring. She would dedicate quiet moments to listening to music and getting into the right mindset to deal with her nervousness. However, her current hectic schedule leaves little opportunity for this pre-match ritual.
“I feel like when I first started, I made time for myself before matches. I would listen to music, I would get in the zone. I would have to pump myself up because I would be so nervous. Now, I still get nervous, probably to the same extent to be completely honest, but I don’t really have time to rev up. I’m normally running around like a chicken without a head here in WWE.” ?Rhea Ripley, WWE Superstar
She added that despite the fast pace backstage, the moment her entrance music begins playing, she immediately shifts into her in-ring persona, ready to bring intensity and fight for victory.
“So by the time that my music hits, it’s kinda just like, [snaps fingers], ‘I’m Rhea Ripley, it’s time to kill, it’s time to go out there and bring the brutality and win the match.’” ?Rhea Ripley, WWE Superstar
Upcoming Challenges and What Lies Ahead
Rhea Ripley’s admission reveals the emotional and mental challenges WWE superstars face beyond the spotlight. She is scheduled to compete at the upcoming Elimination Chamber event, where she will confront five other competitors. This event promises to test her skill and resilience under pressure once again, as she aims to solidify her standing in the promotion’s competitive women’s division.
Ripley’s candidness about her nerves underscores the persistent demands of WWE life, even for champions. Her ongoing battle with match anxiety reflects the high stakes and emotional intensity that come with performing on such a prominent stage.
