Is “Mami” Losing Her Edge? Veteran Claims WWE is “Burying” Rhea Ripley After RAW Humiliation
The once-untouchable aura surrounding Rhea Ripley, the dominant “Mami” of WWE, is reportedly under threat, according to industry veteran Vince Russo. A series of perceived missteps, culminating in a shocking confrontation on this week’s Monday Night RAW, has sparked allegations that WWE is deliberately undermining the star’s formidable presence.
The incident in question unfolded during a segment featuring Ripley, Bianca Belair, and IYO SKY. The scene, intended to build tension within the women’s division, took an unexpected and arguably humiliating turn for Ripley. SKY, seemingly fed up with being dismissed and ignored, retaliated with a swift punch to Belair, followed by a resounding slap to Ripley’s face. The visual of Ripley, the embodiment of power and control, visibly shocked and seemingly defenseless, has ignited a firestorm of controversy.
Vince Russo, known for his outspoken critiques of WWE’s creative direction, has seized upon this moment as evidence of a deliberate “burial” of Ripley’s character. He argues that the portrayal of Ripley as someone easily rattled and disrespected is a stark departure from her carefully crafted persona of invincibility.
“They’re burying her,” Russo asserted, echoing the concerns of a growing segment of the WWE Universe. He contends that the company is intentionally eroding Ripley’s aura of dominance, making her appear vulnerable and less intimidating. This perceived shift in character portrayal, he believes, signals a significant decline in Ripley’s standing within the company.
The timing of this alleged “burial” is particularly significant, given Ripley’s recent loss of the Women’s World Championship to IYO SKY. That title change, which occurred after a distraction from Bianca Belair, was already seen by some as a questionable creative decision, potentially hindering Ripley’s momentum. The RAW segment, coupled with this title loss, has amplified concerns that WWE is actively pushing Ripley down the card.
Examining the Evidence: Is Ripley’s Dominance Diminishing?
Rhea Ripley’s ascent to the top of WWE’s women’s division was marked by an undeniable sense of dominance. Her aggressive in-ring style, coupled with her captivating “Mami” persona, established her as a force to be reckoned with. However, recent events have cast a shadow of doubt over her previously unassailable position.
The loss of her championship, coupled with the apparent lack of respect shown to her on RAW, raises legitimate questions about her current booking. The core of Ripley’s character is her unwavering confidence and control. The RAW segment, however, appeared to contradict this, portraying her as someone easily flustered and humiliated.
The crucial question is whether this is a temporary dip in her momentum or a sign of a more significant shift in her character’s trajectory. WWE has a history of fluctuating character portrayals, and it’s possible that this is simply a temporary setback.
However, the concerns raised by Russo and others underscore the importance of consistency in character development. Fans invest in characters they can believe in, and any perceived inconsistency can erode their connection to the performer.
The Fan Reaction and Creative Implications:
The wrestling community has responded strongly to the events on RAW, with many fans expressing their disappointment and concern for Ripley’s future. Social media platforms have been flooded with comments criticizing WWE’s creative decisions and demanding better treatment for the star.
This outpouring of fan support highlights the popularity of Rhea Ripley and the investment that fans have in her success. It also underscores the power of social media to amplify fan voices and hold WWE accountable for its creative choices.
The situation also raises broader questions about the creative direction of the women’s division. The constant shifting of titles and character portrayals can create a sense of instability and undermine the credibility of the division.
WWE faces a delicate balancing act. They must create compelling storylines while also protecting the integrity of their established stars. The company must carefully consider the potential consequences of its creative decisions, particularly when it comes to a performer as popular and impactful as Rhea Ripley.
Ultimately, the future of Rhea Ripley’s career rests in the hands of WWE’s creative team. Whether this perceived “burial” is a temporary setback or a sign of a more significant shift remains to be seen. However, the events of this week have undoubtedly raised concerns about her current trajectory and the direction of the women’s division. It will be up to WWE to address these concerns and restore the aura of invincibility that once surrounded “Mami.”
