Rhea Ripley’s SmackDown impact was undeniable as she made headlines during the first episode of SmackDown in 2026, taking out Zelina Vega with her signature Riptide finisher. In the aftermath, Vega claimed on social media that her back was broken, highlighting the intensity of Ripley’s presence in WWE’s latest show.
The night’s main event brought even more excitement, with Aleister Black battling Damian Priest in a fiercely contested Ambulance Match. Their long-standing rivalry culminated in this matchup, providing fans with a dramatic conclusion to their feud on the debut episode of the year.
Ripley’s Dominance Leaves Zelina Vega Reeling
After SmackDown aired, Rhea Ripley took to Instagram to taunt Zelina Vega, further fueling the ongoing storyline between the two WWE superstars. Vega, the former Women’s United States Champion, responded with a quote referencing Mike Tyson’s infamous injury comment, escalating the war of words between the athletes.
“Don’t hi Zelina me. My back is broken. Spinal.” wrote Vega.
Vega’s reaction quickly caught attention online as fans speculated about whether the comment was more rooted in kayfabe or a sincere admission about the physical toll the match had taken.
Possibility of a Rematch Between Vega and Ripley
Their rivalry is far from over, as Zelina Vega has hinted at facing Rhea Ripley again in the squared circle. The two previously met in a singles match at the 2023 Backlash Premium Live Event. Speaking in an interview with IGN, Vega made it clear that achieving victory against Ripley would bring her wrestling journey full circle and provide much-needed closure.
“Rhea Ripley. I feel like I have a full-circle moment. You’re talking about finishing stories, that would be the finish of mine. Being able to actually beat her and complete that story that was supposed to be in Backlash [2023]. So, I say Rhea,”
Vega’s comments have reignited interest in a potential rematch, with many WWE fans eager to see if she can overcome the former WWE Women’s World Champion.
Moving Forward: Ripley Continues to Take Center Stage
Rhea Ripley isn’t slowing down. Currently competing on Monday Night RAW, she is set to join forces with IYO SKY to vie for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships against The Kabuki Warriors this week. Ripley’s momentum continues to build, as she also joined SKY, Alexa Bliss, and Charlotte Flair on SmackDown in an 8-woman tag team match against Asuka, Kairi Sane, Lash Legend, and Nia Jax.
With her recent commanding display on SmackDown and numerous high-profile bouts, Rhea Ripley maintains her reputation as one of WWE’s most impactful superstars. As speculation mounts over Vega’s next move and the possibility of a high-stakes rematch, the women’s division in WWE grows more intense, leaving fans eager for what’s next in this ongoing rivalry.
Zelina Vega's reaction after taking a Riptide from Rhea Ripley on SmackDown: pic.twitter.com/v55mFWnf1J
— WrestleSD (@wrestle_sd) January 5, 2026
