In a tense online exchange, Rhea Ripley defends Toni Storm fan after a social media user mocked a wrestling supporter dressed as AEW’s ‘Timeless’ Toni Storm, sparking a viral moment that highlights ongoing tensions within the wrestling community. This incident unfolded as Ripley, a major <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE figure, responded directly to the criticism on the platform X, signaling her support for fans and the broader wrestling audience.
Ripley Calls Out Criticism of Wrestling Cosplay
The situation began when an X user posted two photos of a fan cosplaying as Toni Storm, accompanied by a disparaging comment directed not just at the fan, but at the broader Internet Wrestling Community. The dismissive remarks drew attention from across wrestling fandom. Rhea Ripley was quick to interject, advising against such negativity and publicly defending the cosplaying supporter.
“How am I supposed to take the IWC seriously when this is what the people in my comment section look like,”
wrote the X user, to which Rhea Ripley responded,
“Meanwhile you hide behind a fake profile picture and name to mask your own insecurities This timeless Toni storm cosplay slaps and she absolutely slays that shit! Seems like jealously to me.”
—Rhea Ripley, WWE Superstar
Recent Achievements and Rivalries in WWE
Beyond her online presence, Rhea Ripley is coming off a commanding victory against Raquel Rodriguez at last weekend’s Night of Champions event. Following this win, Ripley received a challenge from Women’s World Champion IYO SKY, whose own prominence surged after defeating Ripley and Bianca Belair at WrestleMania earlier this year. That same night, SKY managed to retain her championship against the formidable duo, resulting in a storyline that has kept both The Eradicator and Bianca Belair off WWE broadcasts since April.
Ripley and SKY are set to renew their rivalry, with a scheduled title match at WWE Evolution 2 on July 13. As Belair prepares for an anticipated return to a major WWE event this summer, fans are keen to see how these competing forces in women’s wrestling will shape upcoming storylines. Raquel Rodriguez, who recently faced Ripley, remains a significant contender in this evolving division.
Current Storylines in AEW and Crossover Anticipation
On the AEW side, Toni Storm, who inspired the viral cosplay, is actively engaged in a heated program with Mercedes Mone. Both are former WWE athletes who have transitioned into prominent roles in AEW. The two champions are poised to collide in a much-anticipated match at All In Texas, a bout that fans of both organizations are watching closely given the crossover appeal and growing recognition of women’s wrestling in mainstream sports entertainment.
This recent viral exchange spotlights the deep passion and creativity within wrestling fandom, while also highlighting the pressures faced by fans—and stars like Rhea Ripley—online. Ripley’s decision to defend the Toni Storm cosplayer against ridicule demonstrated her ongoing commitment to inclusivity and respect within the community. As her rivalry with IYO SKY heats up and as Belair prepares for a comeback, the WWE women’s division looks set for a summer of high-stakes competition and renewed interest from fans worldwide.
