Quick Read
- Drake named WWE star Rhea Ripley his ‘muse’ during a podcast appearance.
- Ripley’s unique gothic style and dominance in WWE caught Drake’s attention.
- Drake previously liked Ripley’s Instagram post and attended WWE events.
- Criticism surrounds WWE’s creative direction for Ripley, with concerns about her losing her edge.
On September 2, 2025, Canadian rapper and global superstar Drake made headlines during his appearance on Bobbi Althoff’s podcast Not This Again. While attempting to pull up rapper Tyga’s Instagram on a spotty internet connection, Drake revealed an unexpected name dominating his social media feed: WWE champion Rhea Ripley. “My FYP page is just all Rhea Ripley. She’s a wrestler. She’s like my muse, but I’m probably the opposite of everything she likes,” he joked. The comments, delivered in Drake’s characteristic humorous tone, instantly ignited buzz across social media platforms.
Drake’s Unlikely Fascination With Rhea Ripley
Drake’s mention of Ripley, known as “Mami” in the WWE, marked another intersection of the worlds of hip-hop and professional wrestling. According to Times of India, this wasn’t the first time the rapper expressed admiration for Ripley. Earlier this year, in April 2025, Drake liked a viral bikini selfie Ripley posted on Instagram, drawing attention from fans and even other wrestlers. The moment became a talking point, fueling speculation about Drake’s interest in the Australian wrestling star.
Beyond social media, Drake attended the WWE Elimination Chamber event in Toronto in February 2025, sitting front row and cheering alongside other fans and celebrities. His enthusiastic support for WWE, and Ripley in particular, has blurred the lines between music and wrestling fandoms. As Ringside News pointed out, Drake’s admiration for Ripley is a testament to her growing appeal beyond the wrestling ring.
Rhea Ripley: From WWE Icon to Global Inspiration
Rhea Ripley’s rise to fame in WWE has been nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Adelaide, Australia, Ripley is a two-time Women’s World Champion, with her first title reign lasting an impressive 380 days, tying for the longest in WWE history. Known for her gothic, metal-inspired persona, Ripley has captivated audiences with her unique style and dominating presence in the ring. Despite her marriage to AEW wrestler Buddy Matthews in 2024, Ripley continues to attract attention from fans and celebrities alike.
As highlighted by HotNewHipHop, Drake’s comments about Ripley extend beyond admiration for her wrestling prowess. The rapper described his “dream girl” as a “goth baddie” during his podcast appearance, a description that aligns with Ripley’s distinctive aesthetic. While it’s unclear how serious Drake was, his remarks have undoubtedly shone a spotlight on Ripley’s crossover appeal.
Controversies Surrounding Ripley’s WWE Storylines
While Drake’s comments have amplified Ripley’s global recognition, her WWE career has faced challenges in recent months. According to Sportskeeda, wrestling veteran Vince Russo criticized WWE’s creative direction for Ripley, suggesting that her character has lost its edge. During a backstage interview in France, Ripley hinted at her interest in the upcoming Women’s World Championship match but was interrupted by rivals Asuka and Kairi Sane, leading to a tense exchange.
Russo expressed frustration, stating, “What are we doing with her? Rhea Ripley is being turned into a regular person. She’s losing her aura.” Fans have echoed similar concerns, urging WWE to restore Ripley’s dominant persona. Despite these criticisms, Ripley remains one of the most compelling figures in wrestling, with many hoping she will reclaim her commanding presence in the months to come.
The Intersection of Hip-Hop and Wrestling
Drake’s public admiration for Rhea Ripley represents a broader trend of crossover moments between hip-hop and professional wrestling. From celebrities attending WWE events to wrestlers incorporating music into their personas, these intersections have enriched both industries. As PopCrush observed, Drake’s comments have not only sparked conversations but also introduced Ripley to a wider audience.
The rapper’s ability to bridge different cultural worlds underscores his influence as an entertainer. By naming Ripley his “muse,” Drake has elevated her profile, ensuring that her name resonates far beyond the wrestling ring. For Ripley, this newfound attention could serve as a springboard for further opportunities, both within and outside WWE.
Drake’s unexpected revelation about Rhea Ripley has brought renewed attention to both stars, showcasing the power of cross-industry connections. As Ripley navigates her WWE journey, her growing appeal across diverse audiences highlights her status as a true global icon.