WrestleMania 39, the biggest professional wrestling event of the year, took place over two days at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The marquee match of the event was between the undisputed WWE universal champion Roman Reigns and Royal Rumble winner Cody Rhodes. However, one of the most exciting matches of the event was between Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley for the Smackdown women’s title.
A Historic Match
The WrestleMania 39 match between Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley was historic as it was the first WrestleMania match to have two female competitors, a female referee, and a female ring announcer. Charlotte Flair, daughter of legendary wrestler Ric Flair, had been one of WWE’s most pushed female wrestlers for years. On the other hand, Ripley had been portrayed as a heel with a storyline relationship with Dominik Mysterio.
A Grueling Battle
The match between Flair and Ripley was physically grueling and well-executed. The crowd was quieter during this match compared to other matches on the show. However, as the match progressed, the crowd sided more with Ripley who got the upper hand initially against her adversary. In her signature move of defiance, Rhea gave Charlotte a crotch chop which Charlotte overcame to quickly clothesline her out of the ring.
A Career Defining Win
Flair had previously defeated Ripley in three high-profile singles matches, so WWE faced the question of whether to have Ripley beat the older, more established Flair. Ultimately it was decided that it was time for Rhea to cement herself as one of WWE’s top female wrestlers by winning her first major title at WrestleMania 39.
Ripley Emerges Victorious
Charlotte fought back with multiple chops and countered a riptide attempt with a DDT, but Rhea kicked out. Both wrestlers took each other down with big boots, and Rhea hit an avalanche German suplex but Charlotte kicked out. Finally, Rhea hit the riptide, but Charlotte kicked out yet again.
A Historic Victory
Rhea applied her signature move for the win, an avalanche riptide from the top rope which was enough to secure the title. Charlotte applauded Rhea from outside the ring, acknowledging her opponent’s effort and resilience. The win marked a historic moment in Ripley’s career as she became the Smackdown women’s champion for the first time at WrestleMania 39.
The two-day event had other exciting matches featuring legends and up-and-coming stars of WWE. From Social media star Logan Paul returning to the ring to face off against Seth Rollins to WWE Hall of Famers Lita and Trish Stratus teaming up with Becky Lynch, the audience was entertained throughout. Fans will eagerly await next year’s WrestleMania where new exciting matches will take place.
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