WWE Crown Jewel’s Women’s Tag Title Match Wasn’t Originally Planned for the Event

The 2024 WWE Crown Jewel event at the Mohammed Abdo Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was filled with historic moments, including an intense Women’s Tag Team Championship match. However, this bout wasn’t initially part of the plan, as it was a last-minute replacement for a previously scheduled showdown between Rhea Ripley and Raquel Rodriguez.

As previously reported, Ripley suffered an injury during the October 21 episode of RAW. WWE confirmed that Ripley fractured her right orbital socket after headbutting Liv Morgan. While the attack was part of a storyline, the injury was legitimate, and WWE announced that Ripley would be taking time off to recover. This development forced WWE to pivot and replace the singles match with a multi-team Women’s Tag Team Title contest.

At Crown Jewel, the match saw Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill defending their WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships against Kairi Sane and IYO SKY of Damage CTRL, Meta-Fo

Dave Meltzer discussed the situation on the latest installment of Wrestling Observer Radio, saying, “This match, I didn’t expect a title change and I don’t think anyone else did because it was thrown together at the last minute. This match was the replacement for the originally scheduled Rhea Ripley vs. Raquel Rodriguez match.”

Despite the unexpected switch, Crown Jewel showcased the depth and versatility of WWE’s women’s division. With Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill standing tall at the end of the match, the focus now shifts to potential rematches or new rivalries as other teams look to dethrone the champions.

Though the original Ripley vs. Rodriguez clash would have been a nice addition to Crown Jewel, WWE’s pivot to a multi-team Women’s Tag Team Title match delivered on intensity and provided some unforgettable moments.

What are your thoughts on WWE’s decision to replace the Ripley vs. Rodriguez match with a multi-team tag contest? Do you think the company made the right call, or were you hoping to see Ripley and Rodriguez face off? Let us know in the comments below!

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