Rhea Ripley has addressed the absence of Bianca Belair from WWE, noting her absence is felt within the organisation.
Ripley Misses Belair’s Presence
Ripley, who is preparing to challenge Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Title at WrestleMania 42, last faced Belair along with IYO SKY at WrestleMania last year. Speaking with ShakWrestling, Ripley said of Belair, “Yeah, she is [a great contribution to the roster]. It’s not the same. It’s honestly not the same without Bianca there. I miss her, I hope that she comes back soon but at the same time, I also hope she’s living her best life not having to go to work for a little bit.”
Ripley acknowledged Belair’s heavy workload, stating, “She’s busted her ass for so long, they’ve literally made her do so much and work so much, she deserves the time off. I wish it was under better circumstances, because that finger be looking nasty.”
Belair’s Injury and Recovery
Belair sustained a finger injury in that WrestleMania match and has since undergone surgery. Ripley commented on the severity of the injury, “Like, it’s shocked me that’s she’s been out for nearly a year from a finger injury, something that seems so small but something that is so big. I’ve seen the photos, she sent me the photos. They’re pretty gnarly looking.”
Ripley further added, “It’s so swollen. She’s doing rehab every single day and I’m looking forward to the day that she does come back, but I don’t know how long that’s going to be.”
Ripley’s WrestleMania Appearance
Ripley is set to participate in her seventh WrestleMania.
Ripley hopes Belair returns soon.