This means a lot to me (Patreon)

The picture you see is South Australian born pro wrestler Rhea Ripley.

I am a very dedicated fan of pro wrestling, and Rhea is the first wrestler from my home town to go on to become a massive mega star. Tonight WWE hold their Elimination Chamber event from Perth, Australia.

While Perth is not Rhea's home town, the crowd reaction for this woman is going to be deafening at Optus Stadium tonight.

I almost want to record my reaction to it because I know the recognition and admiration she will receive is rightly earned and completely deserved, and it will bring tears to my eyes to witness her living that moment every wrestling fan (especially in countries with such limited representation in the WWE) dreams of being a part of.

Rhea has been champion for 326 days, almost 3 times the length of the next title reign. She is a mega star, and I could not be more proud every time I see her career continue to escalate.

For those who don't understand why this matters, in terms of "Wrestling is scripted, the winner is predetermined", allow me to share a different perspective.

There can only be one person who holds a championship belt, the decision on who that person is, is made based on crowd reaction, merch sales, in ring talent, charisma and professionalism.

To be awarded a top title in pro wrestling is indeed an honour, 80% of people who wrestle are never deemed to be "good" enough at the job, to be given a marquee position on the weekly TV shows.

So winning a championship title in wrestling, or any other accolade is scripted, and it is scripted for those who do the best job, it is a badge of recognition for talent to be given that Championship.





Elimination Chamber is live on Peacock in the USA in about 11 hours, and if you have a moderate curiosity or interest in pro wrestling, I recommend tuning in to Rhea Ripley vs Nia Jax for the WWE Women's World Championship