In the most recent episode of WWE Monday Night Raw, fans were given a nostalgic and unexpected moment when a beloved performer — humorously dubbed as “Rhea Ripley’s ex” in online wrestling circles — made a quiet return to the show.
While the episode largely focused on the night’s in-ring matches and ongoing rivalries, the backstage segment featuring this returning WWE personality quickly became one of the most talked-about moments among fans. The performer, who has been associated with Ripley through a playful social media storyline in the past, appeared in a light-hearted clip behind the scenes, much to the delight of the audience watching at home and on social platforms.
Though the exact nature of this person’s role going forward on Raw hasn’t been detailed by WWE, the surprise appearance sparked plenty of speculation. Viewers noted the tone of the backstage moment seemed to blend comedy with continuity; the character’s history with Ripley — largely played for laughs rather than serious storyline drama — was referenced in the segment’s dialogue and reactions.
The WWE Universe has seen similar returns before, where fan-favored personalities re-enter the picture for short appearances or full story arcs. In this case, the light-hearted nod to Ripley’s past added a refreshing moment to the show, especially amid the intensity surrounding Ripley’s own narrative on Raw in recent months.
Ripley herself continues to maintain a strong presence in WWE despite recent title changes and ongoing feuds, with rivalries and major matches still shaping her path on the red brand.
Whether this returning performer will continue to be part of the Raw storyline remains to be seen, but the surprise reappearance certainly added buzz to an already action-packed night of wrestling entertainment. Fans on social media were quick to praise the moment, calling it a fun and nostalgic highlight of the evening’s broadcast.