Traveling as a WWE Superstar can be both exhilarating and challenging. From airport paparazzi to over-zealous fans, these wrestlers are constantly in the public eye, and their privacy can be severely compromised. Recently, WWE superstar Rhea Ripley spoke out about the pressures of signing autographs for fans and shared an experience that left her feeling threatened.
In a tweet, Rhea Ripley explained her frustrations with fans who constantly ask for autographs and don’t take no for an answer. Ripley expressed her disappointment and warned fans to respect her boundaries. “People need to respect that no means no!” she wrote. “At airports, do not follow me outside. Today has put me off completely! I will not sign ANYTHING that isn’t a personal photo of us anymore. Hate me, I don’t care. Disagree with me, try putting yourselves in our shoes for one bloody day.”
In an interview with USA Network, Rhea Ripley elaborated on her experience at the airport and how it made her feel. She recounted how a fan had followed her outside the airport, despite her saying no to signing his merchandise. Ripley explained that this particular fan was known to sell autographs on eBay and was often seen at the airport. The fan and several others surrounded her and hassled her as she was trying to find her Uber, leaving her feeling threatened and lost.
Ripley emphasized that she and other wrestlers are often sleep-deprived, rushed, and hungry while traveling, making it even more challenging to deal with demanding fans. She urged fans to treat wrestlers with respect and understand that they are human beings, not just products for public consumption. Ripley noted that while she loves taking photos with genuine fans, she is no longer willing to sign anything that is not a personal photo.
Overall, Rhea Ripley’s experience sheds light on the challenges that come with being a WWE superstar. Fans must remember that these wrestlers are not just performers but also human beings who deserve respect and privacy. While many fans are genuine and respectful, some are more interested in making money off the wrestlers’ signatures than in being true fans. Rhea Ripley reminds us that treating wrestlers with respect is key to fostering a healthy and positive relationship between fans and their favorite WWE superstars.
