Controversy erupts online following Ripley’s crowd-pleasing moment

Summary

– Rhea Ripley smacked her backside with a kendo stick during a WWE live event

– Zoey Stark responded with a censored video and a critical caption

– Ripley’s in-ring antics continue to spark debate among fans and wrestlers

Rhea Ripley created a buzz at a recent WWE house show when she playfully hit her backside with a kendo stick during her entrance. The moment, filled with her usual high-energy confidence, drew loud cheers from the crowd.

Not everyone found it entertaining. WWE Superstar Zoey Stark took issue with the display and posted a censored video of Ripley’s action on social media. Alongside the footage, Stark wrote, “Example #1 what’s wrong with women in today’s society,” igniting an online debate.

This is not the first time Ripley’s showmanship has been challenged. Last year, she performed a stink face on Nia Jax during another live event and faced a similar backlash. Ripley responded at the time by defending her approach and pointing out the double standards often applied to women in wrestling.

Ripley has not commented on Stark’s recent post, but fans are watching closely to see whether she fires back. Whether praised or criticized, Ripley remains one of the most discussed names in the women’s division.

Example #1 what's wrong with women in today's society pic.twitter.com/yQwuoZZ71D

— Zoey Stark (@ZoeyStarkWWE) March 30, 2025