Rhea Ripley Discusses Changes To Her Pre-Match Routine

Rhea Ripley has experienced a dramatic evolution since her early days in the professional wrestling industry. The popular babyface has transformed from a promising developmental prospect into one of the most recognizable faces in the entire company. She recently took some time to reflect on her journey and how her backstage habits have adapted over the years.

Ripley is currently preparing to step inside the steel structure for this Saturday’s women’s Elimination Chamber match. The winner of the grueling contest will earn a guaranteed championship opportunity at WrestleMania 42. She will look to join Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan in securing a premier spot on the card in Las Vegas.

Ahead of the demanding premium live event, Ripley made a special appearance on the ESPN Sportscenter television show. During the broadcast, the former champion was asked how her pre-match routine has changed since the start of her career compared to her current schedule. She provided a very honest assessment of her preparation methods.

“I feel like when I first started, I made time for myself before matches. I would listen to music, I would get in the zone,” Ripley stated to the viewing audience. She admitted that the pressure of performing often weighed heavily on her mind during her initial years on the roster.

“I would have to pump myself up because I would be so nervous,” she added. Finding a quiet moment to focus was essential for her early success. However, her current status as a top-tier attraction has drastically altered her availability behind the curtain.

“Now, I still get nervous – probably to the same extent to be completely honest – but I don’t really have time to rev up,” Ripley explained. She noted that her responsibilities have increased exponentially. “I’m normally running around like a chicken without a head here in WWE,” she confessed.

The constant media obligations and backstage preparations leave very little room for a quiet ritual. Ripley has learned to flip the switch immediately when it is time to perform for the WWE fans. She described the exact moment her mindset shifts from the chaotic backstage environment to her intense in-ring persona.

“So by the time that my music hits, it’s kinda just like, [clicks fingers], ‘I’m Rhea Ripley, it’s time to kill, it’s time to go out there and bring the brutality and win the match,’” she ended. This ability to instantly channel her aggressive nature has made her a formidable opponent for anyone on the roster.

Ripley will need every ounce of that brutality as she heads into the United Center in Chicago on February 28. The current WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion is dealing with a visible facial injury following an attack by Nia Jax and Lash Legend on SmackDown. Despite the physical setback, she remains focused on outlasting Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Kiana James, and Tiffany Stratton inside the Elimination Chamber to secure her path to Allegiant Stadium.

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