How Long WWE Planned Rhea Ripley’s Return

Rhea Ripley made a surprise return during WWE RAW on July 8, catching Liv Morgan off guard. The WWE Women’s World Champion and Dominik Mysterio had just won their main event mixed tag team match against Zelina Vega and Rey Mysterio when Ripley made her unexpected comeback. This move was part of WWE’s plan.

According to Sean Ross Sapp on Fightful Select, Ripley’s return had been discussed internally for almost a month. The timing was set for the RAW after Money in the Bank.

Ripley had been out with an AC Joint injury and needed time off. She was cleared and has now returned. During her hiatus, she married Buddy Matthews, but this did not affect any on-screen romance angle. Triple H maintained the storyline, unlike the situation with Lana and Rusev’s angle, which was altered due to their real-life marriage.

Ripley’s return could set the stage for a significant SummerSlam match. How WWE will develop the storyline remains to be seen. Liv Morgan was visibly affected by the sudden turn of events, fleeing through the crowd to escape Ripley’s return.

What’s your take on Rhea Ripley’s WWE return? Do you think she should have waited longer? Share your thoughts in the comments section!