The highly anticipated showdown between Rhea Ripley and Becky Lynch for the Women’s World Championship at WrestleMania XL continues to gather momentum, with WWE ramping up efforts to intensify the rivalry in recent months.
However, amidst the build-up, another formidable force made its presence known on the latest episode of Friday Night SmackDown.
The March 29, 2024, edition of SmackDown dazzled fans at the Mohegan Sun Arena with its stellar lineup of matches and dramatic moments.
While Ripley didn’t grace the televised show, she engaged in a riveting non-televised match against her former adversary, Shayna Baszler, immediately after the broadcast concluded.
After smackdown went off the air Rhea Ripley faced Shayna Basler for the women's title. No surprise Rhea retained obviously. It was a good match. pic.twitter.com/C0Pm0zt7n0
— Ryan Avedisian (@RyanAvedisian1) March 30, 2024
In an electrifying encounter filled with swift maneuvers and adrenaline-pumping action, the 26-year-old successfully defended her Women’s World Championship against Baszler. The live audience at Uncasville, Connecticut, bore witness to Ripley’s triumph as she vanquished her longstanding rival, solidifying her reign atop the women’s division.
Despite Ripley’s impending clash at WrestleMania 40, Shayna Baszler’s trajectory for the two-night extravaganza in Philadelphia remains shrouded in mystery.
Rhea Ripley Expresses Concern Over Dominik Mysterio’s Unpredictable Moves
Dominik Mysterio’s recent string of bold appearances on SmackDown, independent of his fellow Judgment Day comrades, has caught the attention of many, including Rhea Ripley. However, the Women’s World Champion appeared visibly perturbed by Dirty Dom’s unanticipated actions.
Following Mysterio’s surprise appearance on last week’s episode of SmackDown, Ripley expressed her displeasure at not being informed beforehand. She emphasized the importance of communication, urging Dominik to notify her prior to his ventures so that she could accompany him.
Despite Ripley’s request, Dominik Mysterio continued his unpredictable streak by making yet another unannounced appearance on the latest SmackDown episode, further irking the Women’s World Champion and The Judgment Day faction.
Dominik Mysterio’s enigmatic actions have left Rhea Ripley and The Judgment Day faction puzzled, particularly as he entangles himself in the ongoing skirmish between the Latino World Order and Legado Del Fantasma on SmackDown.
With WrestleMania XL looming on the horizon, the dynamics within the faction remain intriguing as the event draws near.