Rhea Ripley addresses recovery status following knee surgery

WWE wrestler Rhea Ripley has addressed fan speculation regarding her recovery from knee surgery. After a video surfaced showing her walking without a large knee brace, fans suggested a potential imminent return. Ripley clarified on social media that while she is walking more easily, walking and wrestling are very different tasks, asking fans for patience as she continues her rehabilitation.

Ripley underwent meniscus surgery following an injury that sidelined her from competition. During her absence, WWE retroactively recognized Chelsea Green as the WWE Champion, effective August 2, following Ripley's reign ending due to the injury.

Fellow wrestler IYO SKY commented on Ripley's situation during an appearance on The Ringer Wrestling Show. SKY noted that Ripley had been managing an extremely demanding schedule involving international travel and media obligations prior to the injury. While saddened by the setback, SKY expressed belief that the time away is necessary for Ripley to recover and return stronger.