Rhea Ripley has become a cornerstone of Monday Night RAW, capturing the Women’s World Championship and engaging in memorable feuds. However, with recent developments and the rising competition, the WWE RAW Rhea Ripley transfer to SmackDown looks increasingly essential for both her career trajectory and the evolution of the women’s division.
Crowded Title Scene Limits Ripley’s Opportunities
The women’s championship picture on RAW currently includes fierce contenders such as Stephanie Vaquer, Nikki Bella, Raquel Rodriguez, Liv Morgan, and Roxanne Perez, all vying for the top spot. This depth of talent has made it difficult for Rhea Ripley to re-enter the title conversation. Attempting to place her back into such a crowded environment could make her presence feel repetitive instead of revitalizing. A move to SmackDown would offer Ripley the chance to pursue the WWE Women’s Championship, where the competition is less congested and new opportunities await, potentially reigniting her energy as the Royal Rumble approaches.
SmackDown’s Division Needs a Major Star
In recent months, the women’s division on SmackDown has struggled to maintain momentum, with key names primarily focusing on tag team pursuits and little clarity or excitement surrounding the WWE Women’s United States Championship. The addition of Rhea Ripley’s star power could bring renewed focus and excitement to Friday nights. She has the potential to challenge Giulia for the championship, resulting in a heavyweight rivalry that could significantly boost the division’s appeal. With star performers like Chelsea Green, B-Fab, and Michin unable to fully elevate the division on their own, Ripley’s move could be the catalyst SmackDown needs.
Filling the Void Left by Bianca Belair
Bianca Belair has, until recently, served as the face of SmackDown’s women’s division. Following her absence after WrestleMania 41, WWE has found it challenging to fill the gap she left behind. None of the available talent have managed to replicate her unique presence as a leading fan favorite, with notable stars such as Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair now competing primarily in tag team matches. If Rhea Ripley joins SmackDown, she could seamlessly become the top babyface and main event draw, offering a fresh focus point for storylines and giving the brand the stability it currently lacks. The absence of any clear timeline for Belair‘s return makes the need for a new star all the more urgent.
Ripley Deserves New Rivalries and Storylines
Since September, Rhea Ripley’s ongoing feud with The Kabuki Warriors has seen diminishing returns, having lost the unpredictability and intensity it once had. Most major RAW rivalries have already involved Ripley, with few options left to keep her storylines engaging. Relocating to SmackDown would allow The Eradicator to engage in new feuds that could restore fan interest. She could maintain her alliance with Damian Priest for a short time, before pursuing high-profile matches against Jade Cargill and Giulia. Many fans have been eager to see a showdown between Cargill and Ripley, a match-up that could raise the profile of the SmackDown women’s division and end a series of underwhelming title reigns.
The WWE RAW Rhea Ripley transfer to SmackDown is more than a potential storyline—it is a necessary step to maximize her value and breathe fresh life into a struggling division. As WWE builds towards future events, moving The Eradicator to the blue brand could become a defining decision, helping both Ripley’s career and the competitiveness of WWE’s women’s roster.
