One big thing: Rhea Ripley defends controversial Stinkface spot
Former WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley has responded to criticisms of her Stinkface spots at live events earlier this year.
• Ripley performed the Stinkface move on Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler at house shows in March.
• Videos of these moments went viral on social media.
• The Stinkface move was popularized by WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights ongoing debates about gender equality and double standards in professional wrestling.
Ripley’s response
Speaking on Ring The Belle, Ripley addressed the criticism:
• “Shut up. Honestly, like, it’s real funny because I get criticism for every single little thing that I do.”
• She pointed out a perceived double standard: “You see the men doing this and you’re like, yeah, that looks cool, amazing.”
• Ripley also compared reactions to her performance with those of another female wrestler: “Tiffany Stratton does this the other week and they’re like, oh my god, I love you, Tiffany. Oh my God, you’re so sexy, please do that to me. But when I do it, there’s a problem?”
The bottom line
Ripley believes the criticism stems from her popularity: “You’re just mad that I’m popular, that’s why.”
What’s next
An update has emerged on a potential new name for the current iteration of the Judgment Day, following Ripley and Damian Priest’s departure from the group.
What do you think about Rhea Ripley’s response to the Stinkface spot criticism? Is there a double standard in how male and female wrestlers are judged for similar actions? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
