Quick Links
In recent months, Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio's close relationship has been a prominent storyline on WWE RAW. The now SmackDown Women's Champion appears to be infatuated with Dominik, who has undergone a transformation from a lost child to a formidable and menacing man under her influence. Since Judgment Day, which turned Dominik against his father Rey Mysterio, he and Rhea Ripley have been inseparable. Rhea Ripley has often intervened on behalf of her "Dom Dom," and Dominik has reciprocated by supporting his "Mami" in return.
Why Rhea's Relationship With Dominik Mysterio Is Different
One of the most remarkable aspects of Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio's on-screen relationship is that it is not centered around romantic undertones. In a wrestling landscape where romantic storylines are often a staple, Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio's dynamic is unique. They are portrayed as close allies and friends, with Ripley often coming to Dominik's aid during matches and vice versa. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, camaraderie, and a shared goal of success in the ring. This departure from the typical romantic angles seen in wrestling storylines sets them apart from other couples in WWE history.
In traditional wrestling storylines, romantic relationships or sexual tension between characters have often been a prominent plot point, with kissing, physical affection and romantic gestures commonly portrayed on-screen. However, Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio's relationship has deviated from this norm. Moreover, the fact that Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio's on-screen relationship has not included any kissing or other overtly sexual behavior is also significant in terms of representation and diversity in WWE programming. While it's made obvious subtly that the relationship is highly sexual in some way as Rhea plays a dominatrix type of role. This representation of relationships beyond romantic and openly sexual angles adds depth and complexity to the characters and storylines, providing a more inclusive and diverse portrayal of relationships in WWE. Not to mention the fact that Ripley constantly breaks kayfabe on her social media as she openly posts about their real-life boyfriend who is not Dominik!
Rhea Ripley's Real Life Dating History
Rhea Ripley's dating life has been a private matter for the most part, as she has maintained a low profile when it comes to her personal life. In 2019, Rhea Ripley revealed that she was in a relationship with fellow professional wrestler, Demetri Jackson. Ripley shared several photos and posts on social media, expressing her love and support for Jackson, and they were seen together at various wrestling events. However, their relationship reportedly ended in 2022. Rhea Ripley confirmed her relationship with AEW star Buddy Matthews in late 2022. While details about their relationship remain private, the couple is often seen together and openly expresses their affection for each other. Notably, Buddy Matthews was previously engaged to Rhea Ripley's coworker Alexa Bliss until 2018.
Dominik Mysterio, who posts less about his personal life than Ripley, just got engaged to his long-time girlfriend in January 2023. And this was right in the middle of his storyline romance with Rhea Ripley. Considering the fact that past WWE couples had to either be dating in real life or pretend to whenever they appeared anywhere in public, Dominik and Rhea are absolutely unique.
Is There TV Relationship Rhea Ripley & Dominik Mysterio?
While Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio's on-screen relationship in WWE has been a refreshing departure from traditional romantic storylines, it is important to strike a balance in its portrayal to keep the audience engaged without risking monotony. It has not progressed ever since it started, while having great potential. Some fans fear that Rhea being in a love angle will lead to her not being taken seriously as a singles performer, but the same relationship, if booked right, could add an extra dimension to her character as more than just a dominant champion.
If Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio are comfortable incorporating their real-life relationships into their on-screen storylines in WWE, it could add an interesting layer of authenticity and intrigue for the audience. For instance, Rhea's real boyfriend Buddy had an on-screen romantic storyline with Dominik's sister Aalyah not too long ago. There's a Shakespearean storyline right there if Buddy comes back to WWE. Moreover, Alexa Bliss is still on the WWE roster, and she could start a feud with Rhea Ripley based on them both dating Matthews. While this is far-fetched today, WWE has a knack for surprising us.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tbTErKeoqqSowaa%2BjZympmenrLJusM6moKehm2K6ur%2FTnqmip12ntaatjKugqaSVrnqzu8yapZydXZm2p7LEq5ynrF2ptaK6jKiroZ2iqHw%3D