Rhea Ripley was front‑and‑center at Vechain Power Slap 21 on July 10, 2026, watching former AEW talent Jake Hager get knocked out by Amanpreet Singh in Las Vegas. The WWE Women’s Champion and her husband, Buddy Matthews, were captured reacting to the knockout, underscoring their high‑profile status even while sidelined by injuries.
What happened at the slap‑fight?
The event, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, featured a pro‑slap bout between Jake Hager—formerly known as Jack Swagger in WWE—and Indian competitor Amanpreet Singh. Singh landed a decisive strike that sent Hager to the canvas, ending the match in a clear knockout. The crowd erupted, and the camera caught Ripley and Matthews visibly stunned by the sudden finish.
Why the appearance matters for Rhea Ripley
Ripley, the reigning WWE Women’s Champion, has been out with a knee injury since early 2025. Her husband, Buddy Matthews, is still recovering from a broken leg sustained at Grand Slam: Australia in February 2025. Their joint appearance signals that both athletes remain engaged with the broader wrestling community despite their own setbacks. It also reinforces their image as a power couple who bridge WWE and AEW circles, a narrative fans love.
How the knockout reflects broader trends
Jake Hager’s loss adds to a growing list of former AEW stars transitioning to alternative combat spectacles like pro‑slap. The sport’s rising popularity offers a platform for wrestlers to showcase striking skills outside the traditional ring. For Ripley, witnessing this shift may influence future cross‑promotion collaborations, especially as she hints at possible AEW‑to‑WWE talent exchanges.
What’s next for the couple?
Both Ripley and Matthews have hinted at possible returns. Ripley’s recent interview suggested she could persuade Matthews to re‑sign with WWE, though she remains focused on her current storyline with Finn Balor and Damian Priest. Meanwhile, Matthews’ contract status with AEW remains uncertain, leaving fans to speculate about a potential comeback in either promotion.
The knockout at Vechain Power Slap 21 provides a vivid snapshot of the couple’s off‑stage life, reminding fans that even champions watch and learn from every combat arena.