Rhea Ripley Opens Up About Her Eating Disorder Struggles

Rhea Ripley opens up about an eating disorder and the toll online commentary has taken on her. She revealed the struggle after fans publicly criticized her body and weight.

Podcast discussion

Ripley spoke with Danielle Fishel and Will Friedle on the Pod Meets World podcast. She described how social media swings between manageable and overwhelming.

Online attacks and mental health

She said negative posts appear immediately on her For You and timeline feeds. That constant exposure makes doomscrolling impossible and worsens her anxiety.

How stress contributed

Ripley linked her eating disorder to stress and feeling out of control. She explained that disruptions to work, travel pressures, and a fraught home situation all added up.

Support network and coping

She credits her husband, Buddy Matthews, her dogs, and close friend Tommy for emotional stability. The group works out together and provides a positive space.

Responses to rumors

Ripley said she has seen claims about weight loss and steroid use. She pushed back, noting testing and denying any performance-enhancing drug use.

On using real issues in feuds

She also addressed where to draw the line when real problems are used in wrestling storylines. Ripley discussed the ethics of incorporating personal struggles into feuds.

Upcoming in-ring plans

Ripley is scheduled to challenge Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Title at WrestleMania 42. The match will be a major focus as she manages health and career.

She said she kept her eating disorder private while figuring it out. Now she speaks publicly to help others facing similar struggles.