On a show with two Elimination Chamber matches, both of which had serious WrestleMania implications, WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley headlined the show in her title defense against Nia Jax in a display that was somewhat reminiscent of “Golden Era” Hulk Hogan. Jax provided a dominant foil for Ripley, who struggled in ways the champion rarely has during her long and illustrious reign. 

While Roman Reigns might be looking to break Hulk Hogan’s title record, he hasn’t defended the belt nearly as much. I will not use this section on that well-trodded ground, but it is important context, as Ripley is nearing a full year with her title. Ripley has been sneakily a charismatic faction leader like Reigns, as well as a workhorse champion like WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins. While Damian Priest, Finn Balor, Dominik Mysterio and even plucky JD McDonaugh are primed for success this WrestleMania season, they are riding the massive wave of Rhea Ripley’s popularity.

If ever there was someone “made” by Elimination Chamber, it was Ripley.