Wrestling fans love drama inside the ring, but sometimes, the most captivating stories unfold far away from bright lights and roaring crowds.
One of wrestling’s most fascinating real-life tales is the romance between WWE star Rhea Ripley and her husband, Buddy Matthews.
Their relationship turned heads because it didn’t start as a love story at all. In fact, Rhea once admitted she “hated” Buddy when they first met.
How did that icy beginning transform into marriage? Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about Rhea Ripley’s husband and their journey together.
Who Is Rhea Ripley Husband
If you’re wondering who stole the heart of the fierce, powerhouse known as Rhea Ripley, look no further than Buddy Matthews, also once known as Buddy Murphy during his time in WWE.
He’s not just famous for being Rhea Ripley’s partner. He’s carved his own path in wrestling, earning respect for his athletic ability, high-impact style, and dramatic matches.
Here’s a quick profile:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Matthew Adams |
| Ring Names | Buddy Matthews, Buddy Murphy |
| Date of Birth | September 26, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Melbourne, Australia |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 m) |
| Weight | 203 lbs (92 kg) |
| Current Promotion | AEW (All Elite Wrestling) |
| Famous For | Member of the House of Black faction in AEW, former WWE Cruiserweight Champion, and NXT Tag Team Champion |
Buddy’s wrestling career began in Australia’s independent circuit before he made his way to WWE, where he gained a loyal following. Today, he’s a significant name in AEW.
Rhea Ripley Husband Buddy Murphy
Many fans still associate Rhea’s husband with the name Buddy Murphy. Under that ring name, Buddy achieved some big milestones in WWE:
- Won the NXT Tag Team Championship with Wesley Blake
- Captured the WWE Cruiserweight Championship with standout matches
- Earned praise for his high-energy, fast-paced wrestling style
He eventually left WWE to join AEW, where he adopted the name Buddy Matthews. Despite the new name, many wrestling fans still affectionately call him Buddy Murphy when talking about Rhea Ripley’s husband.
Rhea Ripley Husband Name
While fans know him by multiple ring names, Rhea Ripley’s husband’s real name is Matthew Adams.
He’s better known professionally as either Buddy Matthews or previously as Buddy Murphy. These name changes reflect his evolution as a wrestler—from WWE’s bright lights to the edgier atmosphere of AEW.
WWE Rhea Ripley Husband
It’s quite rare for a WWE star to be married to a wrestler from a rival promotion, but that’s precisely what makes this couple so intriguing.
WWE’s Rhea Ripley and AEW’s Buddy Matthews have become a true power couple, even while working for companies in fierce competition.
Fans have been fascinated by how:
- They manage the demanding travel and performance schedules for two different wrestling companies
- They support each other publicly while maintaining professional boundaries
- They keep their relationship relatively private despite their high-profile careers
Though Rhea remains firmly part of WWE, she’s shown nothing but pride in Buddy’s achievements in AEW.
Rhea Ripley Husband Buddy Matthews
Today, Buddy Matthews is known as a top performer in AEW, part of the dark and mysterious House of Black faction. His intense wrestling style and striking presence have made him a fan favorite.
While he’s focused on his career, Buddy has often credited Rhea for being a pillar of support, especially during injuries or professional challenges.
Their relationship is built on:
- A shared Australian background and love for wrestling
- Mutual respect for each other’s talent and hard work
- Balancing private life while both are in the public eye
Fans often talk about how the couple’s chemistry shines through, even in brief glimpses shared on social media.
Why Rhea Ripley Initially Hated Buddy Matthews
Believe it or not, Rhea Ripley’s first impression of Buddy Matthews wasn’t exactly romantic. In interviews, Rhea confessed that when she first met Buddy backstage, she didn’t like him at all.
“Sir, how dare you?” – Rhea Ripley
She felt Buddy seemed aloof and intense, and his reserved personality clashed with her bold, outgoing style. Add in the competitive world of wrestling, and sparks flew—but not the romantic kind.
Yet as time passed, Rhea realized Buddy was far from the arrogant figure she assumed. Behind the serious demeanor, he was kind, supportive, and genuine.
The Evolution of Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews’ Love Story
By 2022, Rhea and Buddy’s relationship had shifted dramatically. The tension between them dissolved, replaced by affection and respect.
How It Happened
- Both shared the same Australian roots and similar career journeys.
- They bonded over intense gym sessions and strict diets.
- Their paths kept crossing at wrestling events and mutual social circles.
- Slowly, friendship grew into love.
Friends noticed the change first. Where Rhea once avoided Buddy, she began spending more time with him, sharing laughs and stories. Eventually, they became inseparable.
Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews Engagement and Wedding
Engagement Details
- Date: August 2023
- Rhea teased fans with a subtle Instagram story showcasing a sparkling ring.
- Buddy confirmed the engagement during private conversations with wrestling peers.
The Wedding
- Date: June 24, 2024
- A private ceremony reportedly took place in Australia.
- Only close family and trusted friends attended.
- The couple chose not to film or share extensive public details, valuing their privacy.
“We wanted it to be ours. Just us. No cameras, no drama.” – Rhea Ripley
Their wedding was intimate and elegant, reflecting their shared desire to keep personal milestones private.
Rhea Ripley’s Instagram: Relationship Highlights
While they’re both private, fans get occasional glimpses of Rhea and Buddy’s relationship through Instagram. Rhea’s posts often show:
- High-energy workouts with Buddy
- Candid moments from travel and vacations
- Subtle shout-outs during Buddy’s AEW injury recovery
- Cheeky humor and loving captions
These snapshots have fueled fan interest, sparking debates and speculation across wrestling communities.
Rhea Ripley’s Revealing Thoughts About Buddy Matthews
In several interviews, Rhea Ripley has spoken candidly about her relationship. She’s open about how much Buddy means to her and how their personalities balance each other.
Key thoughts from Rhea:
“I hated him. Then I realized he’s one of the sweetest humans on earth.”
“We fought before we ever flirted. Maybe that’s why we’re so solid now.”
“He’s the calm to my chaos.”
These quotes reveal the real-life human side of two wrestling superstars navigating love under intense public scrutiny.
Personality Clash Turned Connection
Rhea and Buddy have entirely different personalities—but that’s what makes their bond strong.
Buddy’s Traits
- Calm
- Focused
- Quiet
- Serious about training and discipline
Rhea’s Traits
- Bold
- Outspoken
- Fun-loving
- Enjoys connecting with fans and media
Together, they create a balance that works both in their personal lives and professional careers.
Fan Curiosity and Rumors
The wrestling world thrives on speculation, and Rhea and Buddy’s relationship is no exception.
Fans often wonder:
- Could Rhea ever show up in AEW alongside Buddy?
- Might Buddy return to WWE to join his wife?
- Are there hidden storylines connecting the two promotions?
As of now, there’s no evidence of any planned crossovers. Both remain committed to their respective companies, while fans continue to dream up fantasy scenarios.
Behind the Gimmicks: Real-Life Dynamics
Despite their superstar personas, Rhea and Buddy live surprisingly normal lives off-screen.
Daily Habits
- Rigorous gym sessions
- Healthy meal planning
- Quiet nights watching movies
- Supporting each other through injuries and career highs and lows
Their relationship seems deeply rooted in mutual understanding, respect, and shared experiences as elite athletes.
Quick Facts Table: Rhea Ripley & Buddy Matthews
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Rhea’s Real Name | Demi Bennett |
| Buddy’s Real Name | Matthew Adams |
| Rhea’s Birthdate | October 11, 1996 |
| Buddy’s Birthdate | September 26, 1988 |
| Where They’re From | Australia |
| First Met | Around 2017, WWE/NXT overlap |
| Started Dating | 2022 |
| Engagement Date | August 2023 |
| Wedding Date | June 24, 2024 |
| Current Promotions | Rhea (WWE), Buddy (AEW) |
| Height (Buddy) | 5’11” (1.80m) |
| Weight (Buddy) | 203 lbs (92 kg) |
| Notable Titles (Buddy) | NXT Tag Champion, Cruiserweight Champion |
Quotes That Define Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews’ Journey
Here are some powerful quotes that fans love repeating:
- “Sir, how dare you?” – Rhea Ripley
- “We fought before we ever flirted.” – Rhea
- “He’s the calm to my chaos.” – Rhea
- “We’re not your average wrestling couple.” – Buddy
- “I’m proud of him wherever he is.” – Rhea
Other Wrestling Couples Who Made It Work
While Rhea and Buddy’s relationship stands out, wrestling has several other high-profile couples:
- Becky Lynch & Seth Rollins: Married, with a daughter, often featured together in WWE storylines.
- Cody & Brandi Rhodes: Managed careers across WWE and AEW.
- Johnny Gargano & Candice LeRae: A wrestling couple who blend real life and wrestling stories.
Yet Rhea and Buddy remain unique because they’re firmly rooted in two rival promotions—and they prefer to keep their private life private.
What’s Next for Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews?
Rhea’s Future
- A central figure in WWE’s women’s division
- Chasing further championships
- Leading the Judgment Day faction
Buddy’s Future
- Recovering from injury as of mid-2025
- Expected to return to AEW later this year
- Fans eager to see him back in action
Fans continue to speculate about whether they’ll ever work together professionally. For now, Rhea and Buddy seem perfectly content supporting each other in their separate worlds.
Reflecting on Their Love Story
The love story of Rhea Ripley and her husband Buddy Matthews is a reminder that true connection can spark in unexpected places—even from a place of initial dislike.
From rivals backstage to partners in life, they’ve built a relationship based on respect, shared ambition, and a deep understanding of the wrestling grind. Fans admire not just their talent but the real love story that’s unfolded behind the scenes.
FAQs:
Is Rhea Ripley married?
✅ Yes. Rhea married Buddy Matthews on June 24, 2024.
Who is Buddy Matthews?
✅ An Australian professional wrestler who currently works in AEW and formerly competed as Buddy Murphy in WWE.
Why did Rhea Ripley say she hated Buddy Matthews at first?
✅ She thought he was too serious and intense, which clashed with her personality. Over time, she discovered his genuine, kind side.
Are Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews still together?
✅ Yes, they remain happily married.
Do Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews have any children?
✅ No. As of mid-2025, they do not have children.
Will Rhea Ripley ever appear in AEW with Buddy Matthews?
✅ Very unlikely due to their contracts with different promotions.
Conclusion
The story of Rhea Ripley and her husband Buddy Matthews proves that love can thrive even in the intense world of professional wrestling. From a rocky start to a strong marriage, their journey shows how respect, understanding, and shared passion build lasting bonds. As Rhea dominates WWE and Buddy continues his path in AEW, fans remain captivated by this unique wrestling power couple—and eager to see what comes next in their incredible story.
