Wrestling superstars Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews built one of the most high-profile relationships in modern sports entertainment by balancing massive global stardom across different promotions. While Ripley dominated the WWE women's division and Matthews made waves in AEW, their real-life romance evolved from mutual gym sessions and social media banter into a fully realized marriage. Fans often search for how they got together, especially given their respective positions on rival wrestling programs.
The pair officially went public with their relationship in early 2022 after months of speculation from the wrestling community. Ripley confirmed their romance on social media with characteristic wit when a fan asked what Matthews had that they didn't, simply replying, "me". Since that confirmation, the couple didn't shy away from sharing glimpses of their life together, seamlessly blending their intense on-screen personas with a grounded off-screen partnership.
How the Romance Began
Before they started dating in April 2022, both athletes shared parallel journeys in the professional wrestling industry. Matthews, previously known as Buddy Murphy in WWE, crossed paths with Ripley through shared industry circles and mutual acquaintances. Both share Australian roots—Matthews hails from Melbourne and Ripley from Adelaide—giving them an instant cultural connection while navigating grueling travel schedules in North America.
Their relationship quickly grew serious as they supported each other through massive career shifts. While Matthews transitioned to All Elite Wrestling as part of the House of Black, Ripley experienced a meteoric rise within WWE, eventually capturing championship gold and leading The Judgment Day. Despite working for competing companies, they frequently posted training clips together, showcasing a shared dedication to fitness and physical conditioning.
Engagement and Marriage Milestones
The relationship reached a major milestone in August 2023 when Matthews proposed to Ripley. Both wrestlers shared the happy news on Instagram, featuring photos of the engagement ring and celebrating the next step in their lives.
Less than a year later, the couple tied the knot. On June 26, 2024, Ripley shared a wedding photo on social media captioned "Til death" alongside the date June 23, 2024. Breaking traditional bridal norms, Ripley wore a striking black wedding gown for the ceremony, reflecting the edgy persona that fans know and love. Reports later confirmed that Matthews took time off from AEW television around that period to travel to Australia for the wedding and family celebrations.
Balancing Stardom Across Rival Promotions
Navigating a high-profile romance across different major wrestling promotions comes with unique challenges. Wrestling schedules are notoriously demanding, featuring weekly television tapings, international tours, and intense training regimens. Yet, Ripley and Matthews managed to maintain stability.
Fans frequently draw comparisons between real-life wrestling couples and on-screen storylines. While Ripley's on-screen dynamic with "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio captured millions of viewers on WWE Raw, her real-life anchor remained firmly rooted with Matthews. The couple often leans into the humor of the wrestling bubble, acknowledging how fans blur the lines between fiction and reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews start dating?
They began dating in April 2022 after connecting through mutual wrestling industry ties and shared fitness backgrounds.
When did they get married?
They got married on June 23, 2024, after announcing their engagement in August 2023.
Do Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews work for the same company?
No. Rhea Ripley performs as a top star for WWE, while Buddy Matthews performs for AEW as part of the House of Black.
Did Rhea Ripley wear a traditional white dress at her wedding?
No. Breaking away from traditional customs, Ripley chose a unique black wedding gown for her ceremony.
