Rhea Ripley defends title at historic WWE all-women’s event in New York

SOUTH Australia’s Rhea Ripley has successfully defended her WWE NXT UK women’s title at the first all-women’s pay-per-view event, Evolution in New York.

Ripley, who beat Dakota Kai to retain the UK championship in the first bout on the card yesterday, said making her WWE main roster event debut at this historic event was indescribable.

“Its such a special day for myself and all the women involved,” she said.

“It’s funny because the date of Evolution is the six-year anniversary of my wrestling career.

“To see how far I’ve come and the women’s division is absolutely incredible.”

The 22-year-old became the inaugural holder of the NXT UK women’s belt and was happy to be part of history after defending the title she won two months ago.

“Being the first ever champion is such an honor,” he said.

“To be a part and help build this new program is history-making and I’m so grateful to be apart of it. “

Even though Ripley, who is a two-time Mae Young Classic competitor and is now sharing the card at the WWE’s biggest women’s event with world’s best like Trish Stratus and Rhonda Rousey, she is still in awe of her opponents

“Even though I’m so nervous, I’m also proud of myself for making it this far and being able to share the stage with these big names,” Ripley said.

“ I feel as if all my hard work over the years is paying off and I can’t wait to show them all exactly what Rhea Ripley can do.”