Zelina Vega's Memorable Homecoming at WWE Backlash 2023

A Historic Moment for Zelina Vega

Zelina Vega experienced a remarkable homecoming at the WWE Backlash 2023 event, marking a significant moment in her career as she became a singles champion on WWE Smackdown. This event was particularly special as it was the first WWE Pay-Per-View held in Puerto Rico since January 2005, generating immense excitement among fans.

As a beloved local figure, Vega was chosen to challenge Rhea Ripley for the WWE Smackdown Women’s Championship, delivering an unforgettable match at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan.

Reflecting on that night, Vega shared her thoughts during an interview on HOT 97, describing it as a career highlight. She noted that the original plan for the match was to be shorter, focusing on showcasing Ripley's strength.

The Shift in Match Dynamics

This marked Vega's first challenge for the WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship in a Premium Live Event against the formidable Rhea Ripley from Judgment Day. Vega recalled that the initial plan was for the match to be 'super quick,' as Ripley had just secured a major victory over Charlotte Flair at Wrestlemania Hollywood earlier that year.

“It (WWE Backlash 2023 versus Rhea Ripley) honestly is one of the most amazing feelings. Not just in my career but in my life, and I didn’t even know that it was gonna be that,” Vega reflected on her title match against Ripley.

“That’s also why I think it was, like, one of those things that were meant to be. I remember hearing, okay, the match was gonna be super quick. Whatever. ‘You’re just there to, you know, put over her strength’ and whatever…”

Months later, reports indicated that the match was initially intended to be brief to establish Ripley as a dominant force in the women's division. However, Vega's rising popularity, especially during her return to Puerto Rico, led to a more competitive performance.

Almost two years after this pivotal match, Vega achieved a significant milestone in her career by winning her first singles championship following Wrestlemania 41. On April 25th, during WWE SmackDown, she defeated Chelsea Green, making history as the second-ever WWE Women’s United States Champion.