Rhea Ripley Vs Charlotte Flair: Wrestlemania 39 Meltzer Review

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into the epic clash between Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair at Wrestlemania 39, as seen through the eyes of the one and only Dave Meltzer. We'll break down the match, Meltzer's star rating, and what made this battle so unforgettable.

The Buildup: A Collision Course

The road to Wrestlemania 39 for Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair was paved with intense rivalry and unresolved animosity. Their history is rich with clashes, each encounter adding another layer to their complex relationship. Remember back in 2020 when Charlotte defeated Rhea for the NXT Women’s Championship? That loss clearly haunted Rhea, fueling her desire for revenge. This wasn't just another match; it was a personal vendetta playing out on the grandest stage of them all.

Charlotte Flair, the Queen, entered Wrestlemania 39 as the reigning SmackDown Women’s Champion. Her pedigree speaks for itself – a multi-time champion with a legacy of dominance. Charlotte's arrogance and unwavering confidence made her the perfect foil for Rhea's brooding intensity. She carries herself with an air of royalty, always reminding everyone of her superior skills and accomplishments. Meanwhile, Rhea Ripley had been on a path of destruction since joining The Judgment Day. Her transformation from a promising NXT star to a menacing force was complete. She was hungry, focused, and determined to prove that she was not the same woman who had lost to Charlotte years ago. The buildup included brutal attacks, mind games, and intense promos that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. It was clear that both women were willing to do whatever it took to gain the upper hand. This clash was more than a title match; it was a battle for respect, pride, and validation.

The weeks leading up to Wrestlemania saw Rhea dismantle opponents with ruthless efficiency, sending a clear message to Charlotte. Each victory was a statement, a demonstration of her growing power and unwavering resolve. Charlotte, never one to back down, responded with her own displays of dominance, reminding Rhea (and everyone else) that she was still the Queen of WWE. The tension was palpable, the anticipation building with each passing day. Fans were on the edge of their seats, wondering who would emerge victorious from this colossal showdown.

The Match: A Wrestlemania Masterpiece

From the moment the bell rang, the energy in the stadium was electric. Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair wasted no time, immediately engaging in a physical battle that set the tone for the entire match. This wasn't going to be a technical showcase; it was going to be a war of attrition. The match started with a furious exchange of blows, both women trying to establish dominance early on. Rhea's power was evident as she tossed Charlotte around the ring, while Charlotte relied on her technical prowess to counter Rhea's attacks.

Rhea's brute strength was on full display as she delivered devastating powerbombs and spinebusters. Charlotte, known for her resilience, absorbed the punishment and fired back with her signature chops and Figure Eight Leglock attempts. The crowd was on their feet, chanting and cheering as the two warriors pushed each other to their limits. There were several near-falls that had fans believing the match was over, only for the other woman to kick out at the last possible second. The drama was intense, the stakes were high, and the outcome was uncertain.

One of the most memorable moments of the match was when Rhea hit Charlotte with a vicious Riptide off the top rope. The impact was deafening, and it looked like the end for Charlotte. But somehow, she managed to kick out, shocking everyone in attendance. Charlotte then locked in the Figure Eight Leglock, putting immense pressure on Rhea's knee. It looked like Rhea was about to tap out, but she found the strength to reverse the hold and escape. The back-and-forth action kept the audience captivated, making it impossible to predict who would win.

In the end, Rhea Ripley emerged victorious, finally overcoming her nemesis and capturing the SmackDown Women’s Championship. The crowd erupted as Rhea stood tall, holding the title high above her head. It was a defining moment in her career, a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. For Charlotte, it was a rare defeat, a reminder that even the Queen can be dethroned. But knowing Charlotte, she will be back for revenge, ready to reclaim her rightful place at the top of the WWE hierarchy. The match was a testament to their athleticism, storytelling ability, and unwavering commitment to their craft.

Dave Meltzer's Verdict

Now, let's get to what you really want to know: What did Dave Meltzer think? Meltzer, the respected wrestling journalist and critic, is known for his meticulous analysis and often controversial star ratings. So, what did he give Rhea vs. Charlotte? While ratings can be subjective, Meltzer's opinion carries weight within the wrestling community.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer rated the Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair match at Wrestlemania 39 a whopping 4.75 stars. This is a high praise from Meltzer, indicating that he considered it to be an exceptional match. For context, a 5-star rating is considered a perfect match, a rare achievement in professional wrestling. A 4.75-star rating suggests that the match was just a notch below perfection, with only minor flaws preventing it from reaching the highest echelon.

Meltzer praised the intensity, physicality, and storytelling of the match. He highlighted the chemistry between Rhea and Charlotte, noting how their previous encounters added depth and emotion to their Wrestlemania showdown. He also commended their athleticism and technical skills, acknowledging that both women were at the top of their game. Meltzer noted that the crowd's reaction added to the overall atmosphere, making the match feel even more important. He also pointed out that the near-falls were perfectly timed, creating moments of genuine suspense and excitement.

Some critics might argue that the match could have benefited from a few more innovative spots or a slightly faster pace. Others might say that the ending was predictable, given Rhea's momentum heading into Wrestlemania. However, Meltzer's rating suggests that these minor flaws did not significantly detract from the overall quality of the match. In his view, Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair was a Wrestlemania classic, a must-see for any wrestling fan.

Why This Match Mattered

The Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair Wrestlemania 39 match was more than just a title defense; it was a symbolic passing of the torch. Rhea's victory represented the rise of a new generation of female wrestlers, ready to challenge the established order. It was a statement that the future of women's wrestling was in good hands. This match showcased that women's wrestling had evolved, moving beyond simple storylines and delivering complex, engaging narratives.

Charlotte, despite the loss, proved once again why she is considered one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time. Her willingness to put over Rhea cemented her legacy as a generous performer who cares about the future of the business. It demonstrated that she was not afraid to lose, as long as it served the greater good of wrestling. The match also highlighted the importance of long-term storytelling in professional wrestling. The history between Rhea and Charlotte added layers of depth to their Wrestlemania encounter, making it more meaningful for fans who had been following their careers.

The match inspired countless young girls to pursue their dreams in professional wrestling. It showed them that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in oneself. It sent a message that women can be just as strong, athletic, and captivating as their male counterparts. Ultimately, Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair at Wrestlemania 39 was a triumph for women's wrestling, a moment that will be remembered for years to come.

So, there you have it! Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair at Wrestlemania 39, a match that delivered in every way and earned a solid 4.75 stars from Dave Meltzer. What did you guys think of the match? Let me know in the comments below!