Rhea Ripley revealed a striking new thigh tattoo just before this week’s live broadcast of WWE SmackDown, held at the Amerant Bank Arena in Florida. The champion shared the artwork on her Instagram story, reposting the tattoo artist’s photo and praising their work.
“The best of the best!” wrote Ripley.
Ripley’s new ink has quickly attracted attention among fans and fellow wrestlers as an impressive addition to her look.
Ongoing Rivalry in Women’s Tag Team Division
Currently holding the Women’s Tag Team Championship alongside IYO SKY, Ripley has been a key figure in the division. Before SmackDown, Bayley publicly challenged Ripley and SKY, accusing them of avoiding a title defense against her and Lyra Valkyria. Ripley responded to Bayley’s callout, setting the stage for a possible confrontation at the event.
Criticism Surrounding Ripley’s Character Shift
Veteran wrestling figure Vince Russo voiced criticism about Ripley’s recent character changes on his podcast, The Brand. Russo expressed confusion about the direction of Ripley’s persona, noting that she appeared less intimidating and more focused on her relationship with IYO SKY.
“What is Rhea Ripley doing with her character? She went from Mami and gothic and the big foot stomp and the big bada*s to like she’s in love with her girlfriend. Like constantly hugging IYO SKY and rubbing heads and smiling. Do you think somebody literally said to Ripley, ‘You need to change your character?’ Because I don’t get it. She’s not feared anymore. There’s no goth feeling,” Russo said.
This perspective highlights a shift from Ripley’s previously fierce and gothic image to a softer presentation that some fans and critics find less compelling.
Upcoming Matches and WrestleMania Prospects
Ripley and IYO SKY earned the Women’s Tag Team Titles by defeating The Kabuki Warriors last month on WWE RAW. Additionally, Ripley secured a spot in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match at the upcoming Premium Live Event (PLE) on February 28. She qualified by winning a Triple Threat match against Ivy Nile and Lyra Valkyria earlier this month.
Her performance at the Elimination Chamber will play a crucial role in determining if she gains a chance at a championship title at WWE WrestleMania 42, making her storyline one of the most closely watched heading into the event.
The Broader Impact of Ripley’s Tattoo and Character Development
Ripley’s new tattoo symbolizes not only a personal expression but also marks a notable point in her evolving public persona within WWE. Meanwhile, ongoing criticism from figures like Vince Russo and storyline rivalries emphasize the complexities of crafting a character that resonates with audiences. As the Elimination Chamber approaches, Ripley’s future in WWE may hinge both on her in-ring success and how her character continues to develop.
Iyo Sky is Rhea Ripley's Valentine ❤️ pic.twitter.com/aS181N8Gnz
— Sportskeeda Wrestling (@SKWrestling_) February 15, 2026
