Rhea Ripley is slated to compete in a highly anticipated triple-threat match at WWE SummerSlam against the current Women’s World Champion Naomi and challenger IYO SKY. This event, expected to draw significant attention, centers on whether Naomi will retain her title or if Ripley or SKY will claim the championship.
Since capturing the World Championship in 2023, Rhea Ripley has maintained a powerful run, quickly becoming a fan favorite and a dominant figure in WWE’s women’s division. While many fans eagerly await Ripley’s potential return to the top, caution is advised by some industry insiders regarding a possible title change at SummerSlam.
Bill Apter Advises WWE to Consider Keeping Naomi as Champion
Bill Apter, a veteran wrestling journalist, has issued a warning to WWE against making a title switch at SummerSlam. He acknowledges Ripley’s impressive reign and the enthusiasm surrounding her challenge, but stresses the importance of Naomi’s evolving character.
Apter praised Naomi’s recent heel turn, saying it adds depth and excitement to her persona. During an appearance on The Wrestling Time Machine podcast, he highlighted the opportunity for WWE to further develop Naomi’s villainous role, encouraging the company to capitalize on her momentum by allowing her to retain the Women’s World Championship.
“Naomi is such a crazed character at this point that no matter how much people want Rhea to win or IYO to win, it would be a big mistake if Naomi does not retain the title.” —Bill Apter, Veteran Wrestling Journalist
Rhea Ripley’s Championship Journey and Fan Support
Rhea Ripley’s World Heavyweight Championship stint has been defined by notable title defenses and a strong presence in the ring. After dethroning Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 39, she became a prominent leader in WWE’s women’s roster.
Fans admire Ripley for her resilience and skill, with many hoping to see her reclaim the Women’s World Championship. Her history of commanding matches and crowd engagement makes her a favored contender as SummerSlam approaches.
Naomi’s Heel Turn Brings New Energy to the Women’s Division
Naomi’s character transformation into a heel has impressed observers and added a fresh dynamic to the division. This change has redefined her role from fan favorite to a more unpredictable and menacing competitor known as “The Glow.”
Her recent performances reflect this shift, and WWE is seen as having potential to use this development for extended storytelling, which Apter believes would be stifled by an immediate title loss.
SummerSlam Stakes and WWE’s Booking Decisions
The upcoming SummerSlam event holds significant weight for the women’s division, especially concerning the championship belt. WWE must balance fan expectations for Rhea Ripley’s victory with the narrative opportunities Naomi’s heel persona presents.
Bill Apter’s advice to retain Naomi suggests the company could be aiming for a longer storyline arc, deepening rivalries and character growth rather than opting for a swift title change. The decision will likely impact not only the match outcome but also the future direction of the women’s roster.
Additional WWE Updates and Industry News
In related WWE news, former superstar AJ Lee spoke openly about her enduring connection with wrestling fans during an appearance at San Diego Comic-Con. Meanwhile, an AEW star praised Seth Rollins as an exceptionally talented performer and the current face of WWE.
A former WWE wrestler denied that Triple H was responsible for a failed storyline, underlining tensions behind the scenes. Meanwhile, WWE announced an extended SummerSlam schedule with a new grudge match added to the card.
Alexa Bliss updated fans on her condition after a bloody nose incident during SmackDown, reassuring supporters of her health. Additionally, the re-recording of Chris Benoit’s WWE theme song by Our Lady Peace’s frontman Raine Maida focuses on promoting mental health awareness.
WWE legend Nikki Bella reflected on her career highlights, while Chelsea Green responded to social media criticism regarding her comments about Hulk Hogan, addressing fans’ concerns directly.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of SummerSlam Title Decisions
The outcomes of SummerSlam’s matches, especially the women’s title, will shape WWE’s creative path in the coming months. Retaining Naomi could lead to deeper storytelling and character development, while a title change to Ripley or IYO SKY might satisfy immediate fan demand but shorten the current narrative trajectory.
As the event approaches, anticipation builds over WWE’s booking choices and their effects on the women’s division’s future prominence, with the SummerSlam WWE title change warning playing a central role in these discussions.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is a yearly professional wrestling event by WWE, the biggest wrestling organization. Starting in 1988, it’s called “The Biggest Party of the Summer.” It is seen as WWE’s second major event after WrestleMania.
Q. Is SummerSlam 2025 2 nights?
A. SummerSlam is one of WWE’s top four major live events, along with WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, and Survivor Series. This year, for the first time, it expands into a two-night event.
Q. Will John Cena be in SummerSlam 2025?
A. In his final SummerSlam appearance, WWE legend John Cena will face Cody Rhodes once again in a highly-anticipated Street Fight.
They previously met in a WrestleMania match in April, where Cena emerged victorious. After winning, Cena promised to “ruin wrestling” and retire holding the championship belt, claiming the title of the “Last Real Champion.”
Q. Will Cena be at SummerSlam 2025?
A. This will be the fourth SummerSlam held in East Rutherford, following the ones in 1989, 1997, and 2007. John Cena will make his final SummerSlam appearance as a wrestler, retiring from professional wrestling at the end of 2025.
