Ronda Rousey surprised everyone when she debuted following the conclusion of the first-ever women’s Royal Rumble match, but several members of WWE’s women’s division were apparently none too happy about it.
Nikki Bella was the first to throw shade at Rousey when she not-so-subtly suggested on Twitter that WWE was overlooking the 30 women who had competed in the historic Royal Rumble match in favor of their newest superstar.
Wonder what all the 30 other women candid thoughts were too? N #firsteverwomensroyalrumble https://t.co/42sztg2JWB
— Nikki & Brie (@BellaTwins) January 30, 2018
The FIRST EVER WOMENS ROYAL RUMBLE???? N https://t.co/VvST69nEFD
— Nikki & Brie (@BellaTwins) January 30, 2018
Well, Nikki has now doubled down on that sentiment by debating with fans on Instagram.
As reported by Cageside Seats, Nikki responded to a fan imploring her to “quit hating on Ronda” by explaining that she’s not hating on her – she’s just upset with the way in which WWE booked her debut.
Nikki’s comment here is interesting, notably because she wrote that Ronda’s booking “made us all upset.” Nia Jax and Sasha Banks both publicly slammed Ronda’s debut, with the latter telling Bully Ray on Busted Open Radio that she has “nothing nice to say” about it. Longtime WWE veteran Natalya also told TV Insider that it’s definitely up for debate as to whether debuting Ronda after the Rumble was the right choice. If Nikki’s comment is any indicator, it means that a lot more women than just those who have spoken up could be upset about the situation.
Of course, there’s always the chance that this could all be a work. However, because no one but the McMahons and Kevin Dunn knew Ronda would be at the Royal Rumble, I’m inclined to believe that at least Nikki and Nia’s reactions immediately following the event were genuine. Perhaps Sasha then decided to build on their responses with her “no comment” comment — although I’m inclined to believe that her reaction was real, too.
And honestly, I agree with them. Ronda’s done jack squat since her debut, and according to Dave Meltzer, her debut match will be a tag team match with a to-be-determined partner against Triple H and Stephanie McMahon at WrestleMania 34. If that’s the case, then there was kind of no point having her debut at the Royal Rumble and making everyone think she wanted a Women’s Title match at WrestleMania.
In other words, in my opinion, Nikki’s right – WWE dropped the ball with their booking here.
Do you agree with Nikki Bella? Do you think her reaction and those of Nia Jax and Sasha Banks are a work or a shoot? Share your thoughts below!