Rhea Ripley has responded to speculation about a possible WWE return after her reaction to a social media post sparked questions among fans. “The Eradicator” made it clear that her recent activity should not be viewed as a hint about when she will be back in the ring.
Ripley is currently recovering from surgery on her right knee after suffering a torn meniscus during her successful WWE Women’s Championship defense against Jade Cargill at Clash in Italy on May 31, 2026. WWE initially tried to manage the injury without surgery, but continued pain, stiffness and limited movement eventually led to the decision to operate in early August.
There is no confirmed date for Ripley’s return yet. While she remains the lineal Women’s Champion, WWE addressed her extended absence by introducing an interim title at SummerSlam, where Chelsea Green won a five-woman ladder match to become the Interim Women’s Champion.
Amid the uncertainty surrounding her recovery, WWE UK recently announced that the company will return to Europe in January 2027 for its Road to Royal Rumble Tour. The post featured IYO SKY, who has a close friendship with Rhea Ripley and previously teamed with her to win the Women’s Tag Team Championship.
“The Nightmare” liked the Instagram post, which quickly caught the attention of fans. One user shared a screenshot of her reaction on X and wondered whether the gesture was simply supportive or if Ripley could be considering a return around the time of the Royal Rumble.
“Is Rhea being supportive or is she thinking she might be back by January?” the fan wrote.
Rhea Ripley did not leave the speculation hanging for long. She responded directly, explaining that there was a much simpler reason behind her like.
“Saw a picture of Iyo… so I liked it 🤷🏻♀️✨.”
Her response suggests that the interaction was simply about supporting her friend rather than communicating anything about her recovery timeline. While the post itself does not confirm a comeback, Ripley did not rule out a January return either.
Previous Reports Have Pointed to a Possible Royal Rumble Return for Rhea Ripley
(Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images)
Although Ripley’s social media activity does not confirm anything, previous reports have offered a more encouraging outlook for her comeback.
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is reportedly hoping that Ripley can be medically cleared in time for the 2027 Royal Rumble, which is scheduled to take place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
That would put the former Judgment Day member back in contention for one of WWE’s biggest events shortly after the start of the new year. However, her recovery remains the deciding factor, and there is currently no guarantee that she will be cleared by then.
