Rhea Ripley may still be on the sidelines with a knee injury, but she was reminded this week why she’s become one of WWE’s biggest stars.
WWE took to Twitter and uploaded a heartwarming video from Fanatics Fest NYC, where a group of young fans showed up dressed as Ripley for a special look-alike contest—and the Women’s World Champion looked genuinely touched by what she saw.
As Ripley walked over to meet them, the kids immediately erupted into chants of “Rhea! Rhea! Rhea!” before several of them excitedly shouted, “I love you, Rhea!” The champion couldn’t stop smiling. Holding her championship over her shoulder, Ripley posed for photos with the girls, laughed with them, and soaked in the moment as they celebrated one of their biggest heroes.
It’s the kind of scene that says a lot about Ripley’s place in WWE today. For years, “The Eradicator” built her reputation by intimidating opponents and dominating championships. Now, she’s also become someone an entire generation of young fans wants to dress up as.
The wholesome moment comes while Ripley continues recovering from the slight meniscus tear she recently revealed. She admitted the injury still prevents her from properly bending her knee, leaving her WWE return date uncertain as SummerSlam draws closer.
Even so, Ripley didn’t let the injury stop her from making time for the fans. Instead of being remembered for her knee this week, she ended up creating a moment those young fans are probably going to remember for a very long time.
What did you think of the surprise Rhea Ripley look-alike contest at Fanatics Fest? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
