The March 17 edition of WWE Monday Night Raw saw some predictable, but still interesting developments in the WWE Women’s World Championship picture. Rhea Ripley left both IYO Sky and Bianca Belair lying during the contract signing. Even further, she signed along with the two women originally slated for the match, insinuating she wants to step in and make this a triple-threat contest. With that direction in mind, it creates a perplexing development for all three individuals involved.
The conversation has to start with the current champion. WWE made a surprise move by putting the championship back on her waist two weeks ago. Sky is coming off another major title run, but that came to an end at WrestleMania 40 thanks to Bayley.
Sky’s booking heading into that initial title match against Ripley caused low expectations for to come out on top, which made that outcome even more shocking. Do not be surprised if it plays a part in Sky being the underdog heading into the WrestleMania match, even if she’s the one with the title.
Then there’s Belair. Yes, she’s a superstar in every meaning of the word. She was the only individual who seemed “strong” enough to come out of Elimination Chamber with the win. Not only did she get the win, but WWE (hopefully) kicked off an angle that will eventually lead to a battle between Jade Cargill and Belair.
But where does this title match factor into all of that? Does Belair become champion, only to have to eventually defend the title against Cargill at some point? That would be a huge contest, but it’s not one that needs a triple threat at WrestleMania 41 to happen.
Finally, there’s Rhea Ripley. The “Dominator” has remained at or near the top of the Raw women’s division for much of the last few years. Fans are vocally tired of her run, ready to see some other performers get their time and opportunity. Yet, it is difficult to envision WWE booking someone else at her level. She doesn’t need to be involved in yet another title match, but this seems to be the only angle WWE had in mind for her at this point in the year.
Rhea Ripley versus Bianca Belair versus Iyo Sky is going to be an excellent match. Easily has the makings to be the best match in women’s wrestling and one of the best across the industry in 2025. However, this is a product of what has been less than stellar booking for the women’s division for the better part of a year.