Anticipation for WrestleMania 40 was at an all time high heading into night one of the big event on Saturday and the show kicked off in a big way. Back in February, Becky Lynch earned the right to challenge Rhea Ripley for the WWE Women’s World Championship when she won the Elimination Chamber match, and Rhea put the title on the line in the opening match of WrestleMania 40.
Both women entered to a big ovation from the fans and Motionless In White played Rhea Ripley’s theme live as the champion made her way down to the ring to defend her title.
Throughout the match Becky Lynch focused on Rhea Ripley’s arm as she tried to weaken the limb in order to make Rhea tap out. At one point Becky Lynch hit the Manhandle Slam for a close two count. Lynch looked shocked when Rhea kicked out and Rhea followed up with Riptide for another close fall.
A frustrated Rhea Ripley went to the top rope, but Becky knocked her down then hit a superplex into the Disarmher. Ripley powered out and put Becky on her shoulders. They went to the outside and Ripley hit Becky with an electric chair drop on the floor. The Eradicator then hit a frog splash for a two count on Becky.
Becky Lynch tried to hit Rhea Ripley with the manhandle slam off the second rope, but Rhea got out of it. Rhea hit Becky with Riptide into the turnbuckle then hit Riptide again to defeat Becky and retain the championship.
MAMI has arrived at #WrestleMania XL as @MIWband plays Women's World Champion @RheaRipley_WWE to the ring in Philadelphia! pic.twitter.com/X8I2b7GJrc
— WWE (@WWE) April 6, 2024
