Rhea Ripley has made a remarkable impact in WWE, but she recently opened up about a pivotal “what if” moment that could have altered her career path. In a discussion with Yahoo’s Uncrowned, Ripley reflected on an injury that changed the course of her professional life, naming it her biggest career what if.
How Tegan Nox’s Injury Affected Ripley’s Rise
Ripley’s surprising answer centered not on herself but on fellow wrestler Tegan Nox. In 2018, during the Mae Young Classic tournament, Nox was Ripley’s opponent and was widely predicted to win. However, Nox sustained an injury shortly after the match began, which led to Ripley being declared the winner by default.
This unexpected outcome allowed Ripley to face IYO SKY in the following round, a match that became a defining moment for both competitors. This sequence significantly boosted Ripley’s career momentum, leading her to greater recognition and success.
Ripley’s Ongoing Success and Future Aspirations
Since that breakthrough, Ripley’s career trajectory has only ascended. She has secured multiple championships and established herself as one of WWE’s top stars. Looking forward, Ripley is focused on competing in the upcoming Women’s Royal Rumble, aiming to secure another opportunity to challenge for a title.
In addition to her current ambitions, Ripley expressed a wish during a recent WrestleZone interview to eventually face off against renowned wrestler AJ Lee, underlining her desire to challenge herself against the best in the business.
The Impact of a Single Moment on Ripley’s Wrestling Legacy
The injury to Tegan Nox stands out as a turning point not only in Ripley’s career but also in WWE’s women’s division. This incident underscores how unpredictable events can open doors for athletes, reshaping their futures. As Ripley continues to strive for new achievements, her reflections highlight the interconnected nature of wrestlers’ careers and the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities.
“My biggest, ‘what if’ would have to be what if Tegan Nox didn’t get injured? That’s my big one, because if that didn’t happen, I don’t know if Rhea Ripley would be here,”
Rhea Ripley, WWE Superstar
