Rhea Ripley has publicly denied having any past relationship with Dominik Mysterio, sparking surprise among WWE fans and insiders alike. The former women’s world champion, who was part of the Judgment Day faction from 2022 until 2024, refused to acknowledge Mysterio after recent tensions surfaced at SummerSlam 2024.
Within the Judgment Day faction, Ripley and Mysterio were depicted as a couple until Liv Morgan’s arrival in April 2024 shifted dynamics. Morgan began to show clear interest in Mysterio on multiple RAW episodes, which ultimately led to Dominik betraying Ripley during her championship match against Morgan at SummerSlam, causing the faction’s breakup.
Understanding Dominik Mysterio’s WWE Legacy
Dominik Mysterio has been associated with WWE for almost 20 years, first appearing in 2005 in a high-profile storyline involving his father Rey Mysterio and Eddie Guerrero. Despite this long tenure, Ripley claimed to have no recollection of any advice or significant interactions with Dominik, underscoring the fresh nature of their fallout.
“You know what’s funny, I don’t recall that name at all, like I don’t…are you sure he’s been working here for 20 years? Dominik Mysterio, not Rey Mysterio? Like, actual Dominik, cos honestly I don’t know who that is. I don’t think there’s anything, so I don’t know who this man is to be completely honest with you. I do not recall knowing him in my past or present or even the future, to be honest. So, I don’t know any advice that he’s given me. Sorry, baffles me, really.”
—Rhea Ripley, WWE Superstar
Ripley’s High-Stakes Challenge at SummerSlam
Rhea Ripley’s opportunity to claim her third women’s world championship slipped away at WWE Evolution. On July 13, she contended with Iyo Sky for the title at the all-women’s premium live event but was thwarted when Naomi cashed in her Money in the Bank contract and won the championship, leaving Ripley visibly stunned.
Following this outcome, WWE General Manager Adam Pearce announced a triple threat match for SummerSlam 2024 between Ripley, Sky, and Naomi, setting the stage for a high-pressure contest. Since SummerSlam also marked Ripley’s betrayal by Dominik Mysterio last year, fans are eager to see how she handles this emotionally charged environment during one of WWE’s biggest annual events.
Other Notable WWE Updates in Recent Weeks
Seth Rollins recently provided an update on his injury status, acknowledging that he anticipates being sidelined for an extended time, heightening concerns within the wrestling community about his future in the ring. Meanwhile, rumors swirl about a major WWE babyface possibly turning heel, signaling upcoming storyline shifts.
WWE also faced internal disputes when one star pointed out a mistake made by commentator Michael Cole during Evolution 2, backed by Bayley’s commentary. Separately, Goldberg expressed dissatisfaction regarding his retirement, though WWE officials denied claims of any conspiracy against him.
SummerSlam title matches remain uncertain due to ongoing medical evaluations of key stars, and WWE has scheduled an NXT premium live event to coincide with a major AEW pay-per-view, creating competitive tensions between the two wrestling promotions. Additionally, AEW has written off a top champion from television despite their championship status, stirring debate among fans.
The Aftermath and Implications for WWE Storylines
Rhea Ripley’s denial of any past connection with Dominik Mysterio signals a dramatic shift in WWE storytelling, especially considering the emotional betrayal that unfolded at SummerSlam. This development not only deepens Ripley’s character arc but also affects the dynamics within what remains of Judgment Day and the broader WWE roster.
The upcoming triple threat match at SummerSlam will not only test Ripley’s resolve for championship glory but also her ability to navigate lingering personal conflicts on screen. With Seth Rollins’ injury and other shifting alliances, WWE is poised for a tense and unpredictable period that will engage fans eager for fresh rivalries and resolutions.
