Rhea Ripley could be edging closer to making her WWE return, even if her in-ring comeback is still some way off. The former Women’s World Champion has been sidelined since August, but WWE reportedly wants Mami back on the road soon.

Ripley has been out of action since undergoing surgery for a torn meniscus. Her initial recovery emerged as a particularly difficult affair. Ripley was spotted using crutches and wearing a large knee brace, which raised concerns about how long she might remain on the sidelines.

However, her recovery has gradually progressed over the past few months.

On September 23, footage of Ripley walking without her large knee brace surfaced online. That naturally led to speculation about whether she was getting closer to an in-ring return. The Eradicator immediately addressed those expectations herself.

Rhea Ripley is expected to travel with WWE to Australia for WrestlePalooza next month. While that doesn’t necessarily mean she will be wrestling, it is an encouraging development for fans who have been waiting to see her back on WWE TV.

During a recent Q&A session, WrestleVotes provided an update. According to the report, Ripley is currently scheduled to travel with the company to Australia as part of its WrestlePalooza roster.

WrestleVotes noted that official confirmation regarding her medical clearance hasn’t yet come to light. However, WWE appears to have plans for Ripley to be involved with the upcoming tour.

“Rhea Ripley — all signs indicate she’s part of the traveling roster to WrestlePalooza. Couldn’t tell you if she will get cleared in time. All we know is she’s getting on a plane and getting to Australia. She’s scheduled to travel,”.

WrestleVotes also revealed that WWE officials backstage specifically want Ripley involved in the Australian tour.

“The people we talked to backstage want her as part of this WrestlePalooza tour.”

It remains unclear what WWE has planned for Ripley if she cannot compete. However, her presence would be a huge boost to the Australian tour.