Rhea Ripley addressed a viral message from former WWE Superstar Shayna Baszler after a recent WWE live event where Ripley and IYO SKY performed stinkfaces on Nia Jax. The interaction between Ripley and Baszler sparked discussion online, highlighting their complex WWE connection and the ongoing storylines involving both wrestlers.
Although Shayna Baszler no longer actively wrestles on WWE television, she appeared as a producer during the July 9 episode of NXT. This suggests she remains involved behind the scenes while possibly paving the way for future appearances. At the house show where the stinkface moment occurred, Baszler commented humorously about the clip, hinting she might not have a chance to conclude her storyline with Ripley in the ring.
The brief but memorable segment quickly gained traction on social media, with Baszler’s lighthearted comment resonating among fans. In response, Rhea Ripley shared her thoughts on Baszler’s message, highlighting the unfinished nature of their WWE narrative.
Rhea Ripley Responds to Fan Criticism Directed at Shayna Baszler
Rhea Ripley previously captured the NXT Women’s Championship from Baszler in late 2019. Speaking to Newsweek, Ripley addressed the criticism Baszler faces from some fans who label her “boring.” Ripley emphasized Baszler’s effectiveness as a heel character, explaining that eliciting dislike is part of her role in wrestling.
“I read a lot of things on Twitter, and I see a lot of things about Shayna and about me. I absolutely hate it when they rag on her and say she’s boring,” Ripley says. “She’s a heel, she’s not supposed to be exciting. She’s not supposed to make you like her. She’s not supposed to do any of that stuff. She’s doing her job right. And I hate when people disrespect that fact. So to go out there and put on a match like that with Shayna and prove to everyone how wrong [they are about] not only me but her as well, it’s a feeling that can’t be matched. I just love proving people wrong.” —Rhea Ripley
Ripley’s remarks underline her respect for Baszler’s craft and their shared desire to prove detractors wrong. This perspective adds depth to their professional relationship and the storyline tension surrounding them.
Baszler’s Role Behind the Scenes and Potential WWE Return
Shayna Baszler’s shift to a producer role on NXT indicates her continuing influence in WWE, even as her in-ring appearances have declined. Her involvement at the July 9 episode supports speculation she may transition back in front of the camera eventually. Wrestling fans remain curious whether Baszler will resume her in-ring career and complete her storyline with Ripley, as hinted during the viral stinkface incident.
The evolving dynamic between Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler reflects broader WWE narratives about legacy, character evolution, and unpredictability. Their ongoing interaction, both on-screen and behind the scenes, signals potential future developments that fans will eagerly watch.
