WWE is no stranger to plot twists and unexpected developments, both inside and outside the ring. Recently, Rhea Ripley, a pivotal member of The Judgment Day, had to step away from WWE television due to a shoulder injury. This absence could potentially reshape the dynamics within her faction, which also includes Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio, Finn Balor, and JD McDonagh. The shift comes at a crucial time as the group had already begun to show signs of internal conflict.
Legendary WWE booker and manager, Dutch Mantell, shared his insights on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Smack Talk, hosted by Rick Ucchino. Mantell speculated on the creative opportunities Ripley’s absence might provide for WWE’s storyline developers. He suggested that this could be an excellent moment to test the stability and strength of The Judgment Day without its prominent member.
“Take her off TV because she’ll be doing nothing,” Mantell advised, highlighting a potential narrative where The Judgment Day evolves or even thrives in Ripley’s absence. This scenario could lead to a dramatic moment upon her return, where her necessity and place within the group might be called into question. Mantell continued, “And even if they involve her in something, I guess the fans are thinking, ‘Well, she was okay to do that. How hurt is she?’…if they have a little trouble out of her, or whatever, they say, ‘Hey, we didn’t need you five months ago, four months ago. We didn’t even miss you.'”
WWE’s Creative Mastery: Keeping Fans Engaged
Dutch Mantell also praised the creative direction under Triple H, who took over after Vince McMahon in July 2022. He commended WWE’s ability to maintain suspense and engage viewers, ensuring that fans are always left guessing what will happen next. This strategy not only captivates audiences but also keeps WWE at the forefront of their minds, overshadowing competitors.
“This is what WWE used to do. They used to make the fans think, ‘Oh, I see it, that’s the moment it happened right there. Yeah, okay.’ And it gets you thinking. As long as you’re thinking about them, guess what? You’re not thinking about anybody else,” Mantell remarked. His comments reflect on the unpredictability that has been a hallmark of WWE programming, a trait that has been successfully revitalized under the new creative leadership.
The Judgment Day: A Future Power Struggle and Rivalry Intensification
As the storyline progresses, the potential power shifts within The Judgment Day could make for riveting television. Rhea Ripley’s eventual return will undoubtedly bring additional layers to the ongoing narrative, possibly reintroducing her into a faction that may have learned to live without her. Additionally, Ripley’s rivalry with Liv Morgan, another top contender in the women’s division, continues to simmer in the background. Morgan’s participation in a Battle Royal on RAW to crown a new Women’s World Champion on April 22 adds yet another dimension to this complex storyline.
She takes care of The Judgment Day, now we will take care of her. Come back stronger sis @RheaRipley_WWE pic.twitter.com/3RqaUaYuDh
— Finn Bálor (@FinnBalor) April 16, 2024
The evolving dynamics within The Judgment Day, combined with Ripley’s recovery and return, promise to deliver a compelling mix of alliance, betrayal, and redemption—elements that have always driven WWE’s most memorable story arcs. As fans eagerly anticipate the next developments, WWE seems poised to keep delivering the high-stakes drama that has defined its brand for decades.
