Rhea Ripley, real name Demi Bennett, is one of the most powerful and influential female wrestlers in WWE today. Born on 11 October 1996 in Adelaide, South Australia, Rhea has transformed from a passionate athlete into a global wrestling superstar. Known for her intense presence, bold tattoos, and dominating wrestling style, she is regarded as one of the top female wrestlers of her generation. In this detailed biography, we’ll cover Rhea Ripley’s early life, age, height, WWE journey, family background, relationships, tattoos, net worth, and much more.
Early Life and Background
Rhea Ripley was born and raised in Adelaide. Her childhood was active and filled with sports. Before entering wrestling, she participated in soccer, karate, and swimming, which helped build her athletic base. Her parents, Peter Bennett and Anna Bennett, were supportive of her passion for sports. She has one younger sister, Calista Bennett.
From a young age, Rhea was interested in wrestling and idolized WWE superstars like Triple H, The Miz, and Beth Phoenix. After completing her schooling at Henley Beach Primary School and Henley High School, she decided to pursue professional wrestling.
Rhea Ripley Age, Height, and Physical Stats
- Date of Birth: 11 October 1996
- Age (2025): 29 Years
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: 62.1 kg (137 lbs)
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hair Color: Black
- Figure Measurements: 32-28-34
Her gothic makeup, piercings, and muscular build give her a fierce look that resonates with her in-ring character.
Professional Wrestling Career
Early Career (2013–2017)
Rhea Ripley began her wrestling journey in 2013 on the Australian independent circuit. She debuted professionally at New Horizon Pro Wrestling’s Global Conflict event in 2014. Her talent quickly gained attention, leading her to international platforms.
WWE Debut and NXT UK Breakthrough (2017–2019)
In 2017, she signed with WWE and debuted in NXT. A year later, she made history by becoming the first-ever NXT UK Women’s Champion in 2018, solidifying her place as a rising star. She held the title until early 2019.
NXT Champion and WrestleMania Spotlight (2019–2021)
In December 2019, Ripley defeated Shayna Baszler to win the NXT Women’s Championship. This victory catapulted her into mainstream WWE stardom. At WrestleMania 36, she defended her title against Charlotte Flair, marking the first time an NXT title was defended at WrestleMania.
Main Roster Dominance and Judgment Day (2021–Present)
Rhea moved to RAW in 2021 and won the RAW Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 37, defeating Asuka. Later that year, she teamed up with Nikki A.S.H. to win the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship.
In 2023, Rhea Ripley won the Women’s Royal Rumble and defeated Charlotte Flair again at WrestleMania 39 to become the SmackDown Women’s Champion. This match was awarded Match of the Year.
Ripley became part of The Judgment Day faction alongside Dominik Mysterio, Finn Bálor, and Damian Priest. She went on to hold the WWE Women’s World Championship for 380 days, tying Bayley’s record.
Career Timeline Highlights
| Year | Achievement |
| 2014 | Professional debut in NHPW |
| 2017 | WWE NXT debut |
| 2018 | First NXT UK Women’s Champion |
| 2019 | NXT Women’s Champion |
| 2021 | RAW Women’s Champion |
| 2023 | Women’s Royal Rumble winner |
| 2023 | SmackDown Women’s Champion |
| 2023–2024 | Held Women’s World Title for 380 days |
| 2025 | Began second reign as Women’s World Champion |
Rhea Ripley Tattoos and Their Meaning
Rhea Ripley’s tattoos are a strong part of her personality and brand. They reflect her inner struggles, strength, and creativity.
- Dagger on her left arm – Symbolizes trust issues.
- Wings on her neck – Represent freedom and transformation.
- Demon stabbing on leg – Symbolizes fighting inner demons.
- Wolf, rose, and lady on calf – Reflect her inner duality.
- Scorpio symbol on her stomach – Zodiac symbol.
- Skull on ankle – Inspired by Supernatural.
- Quotes on her arms and legs – Motivational messages.
Her tattoos play a major role in building her gothic “Eradicator” character.
Personal Life and Relationships
Rhea Ripley is currently married to WWE wrestler Buddy Matthews (formerly known as Buddy Murphy). The couple got engaged in August 2023 and married on 23 June 2024. Their relationship is widely followed and adored by fans.
Past Relationships:
- Dane Davies – Australian wrestler.
- Jeff Armstrong – Wrestler.
- Demetri Jackson – Wrestler.
She often shares loving pictures with her husband on Instagram, showing their strong bond and mutual support.
Net Worth of Rhea Ripley in 2025
Rhea Ripley has built a successful career and brand around her wrestling identity.
Net Worth Breakdown:
| Income Source | Details |
| WWE Salary | ~$250,000/year (base) |
| Total Annual Income | ~$6 million (including merchandise, PPVs, bonuses) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $1 million – $3 million |
| Endorsements | C4 Energy, Mattel, WWE 2K25 |
Her growing popularity, merchandise sales, and video game appearances make her one of WWE’s top-paid female wrestlers.
Awards and Achievements
Rhea Ripley’s list of accolades includes:
- NXT UK Women’s Championship
- NXT Women’s Championship
- RAW Women’s Championship
- SmackDown Women’s Championship
- Women’s Tag Team Championship
- Women’s Royal Rumble Winner (2023)
- WWE Grand Slam & Triple Crown Champion
- PWI Women’s #1 Wrestler (2023)
- Match of the Year (WrestleMania 39 vs Charlotte Flair)
She has also won multiple WWE Slammy Awards including Female Superstar of the Year and Faction of the Year with The Judgment Day.
Social Media Presence
Rhea Ripley has a huge social media following, where she shares workout routines, match updates, tattoos, and moments with fans.
| Platform | Handle | Followers |
| @rhearipley_wwe | 6.1 million | |
| Twitter (X) | @RheaRipley_WWE | 1.3 million |
| TikTok | @rhearipley_wwe | 5.1 million |
Controversies
Like many public figures, Rhea has faced criticism:
- 2019: Apologized for using a homophobic slur during a Twitch stream.
- 2023: Received backlash for saying she “didn’t care if fans hated her,” later clarified she meant only toxic fans.
Despite these, her reputation as a fierce and unapologetic athlete remains strong.
Conclusion
Rhea Ripley is more than just a WWE superstar—she is a symbol of power, transformation, and individuality in the wrestling world. From Australia to the global WWE stage, she has broken stereotypes and inspired countless fans, especially young women. With multiple championships, a strong fanbase, and a unique identity, Ripley continues to dominate and redefine women’s wrestling in 2025.
FAQs About Rhea Ripley
Q1: What is Rhea Ripley’s real name?
A: Her birth name is Demi Bennett.
Q2: How old is Rhea Ripley in 2025?
A: She is 29 years old.
Q3: Who is Rhea Ripley married to?
A: She is married to Buddy Matthews, also a WWE wrestler.
Q4: What is Rhea Ripley’s finishing move?
A: Her finishing move is the Riptide.
Q5: How many titles has Rhea Ripley won in WWE?
A: She is a WWE Grand Slam and Triple Crown Champion with titles in NXT, RAW, SmackDown, and tag team divisions.