Rhea Ripley has declared her entry into the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble, aiming to secure a championship opportunity. With 17 participants confirmed so far, the winner will earn the right to challenge for either the WWE Women’s Championship or the Women’s World Championship, a prize Ripley is eager to claim.
Potential WrestleMania Opponents and Ripley’s Championship Preferences
In a recent WrestleZone interview, Ripley spoke about her admiration for powerful female wrestlers, hinting at possible future rivals like Jade Cargill or Jordynne Grace. Despite this, Ripley emphasized her strong connection to WWE RAW, which is streamed on Netflix, and expressed a desire to return to the Women’s World Championship scene.
You know, as much as I love big, strong women going at it. I don’t think I want to leave RAW and the Women’s World Championship,
Rhea Ripley said.
“That’s always been my baby. I was the first ever Women’s World Champion, and I kind of I miss that title.”
I miss it, I want it back at some point, obviously,
she continued.
So I think a first-off between me and Stephanie could be really awesome to see, so I think I’d pick Stephanie.
Upcoming Challenges for Ripley and Other Contenders
Before challenging for the title, Ripley must claim victory in the Women’s Royal Rumble. Meanwhile, Stephanie Vaquer faces a critical defense of her Women’s World Championship on the February 2 episode of RAW. Vaquer will compete in a Philadelphia Street Fight against Raquel Rodriguez, a member of Judgment Day, who has earned another shot at the title after an ongoing rivalry.
The feud between Vaquer and Rodriguez has intensified over several weeks, spilling into the latest SmackDown event, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, showcasing the growing tension in women’s division storylines.
What This Means for WWE’s Women’s Division
Rhea Ripley’s determination to reclaim the Women’s World Championship highlights the deep competition within WWE’s women’s ranks. Her possible clash with Stephanie Vaquer at WrestleMania could be a marquee matchup, blending legacy and new rivalries. The 2026 Royal Rumble will serve as a pivotal moment, shaping the championship landscape moving forward.
