Jalen Brunson signs WWE chair for Rhea Ripley at Fanatics Fest 2026

Jalen Brunson didn’t blink when WWE’s Rhea Ripley asked for his autograph on her steel chair at Fanatics Fest 2026.

What happened at Fanatics Fest 2026?

Ripley, the WWE star known as “Mami,” flashed her Brunson steel chair-modeled after the ones WWE gives out at pay-per-views-to the New York Knicks captain. Brunson called it “sick” before she made her request. “So, I was wondering if you could sign this for me,” Ripley said. Brunson replied, “For you? Absolutely. Oh my God, yeah.” He scanned the chair for the right spot, then signed, “To Rhea, My favorite!” with a near-empty Sharpie.

Why it matters for Jalen Brunson

The moment capped a wild week for Brunson, who became the Knicks’ first NBA Finals MVP in 53 years after a 45-point Game 5 in the 2026 NBA Finals. He averaged 32.6 points per game in the series, leading New York to its first championship since 1973. The chair now ranks among the most unique Knicks memorabilia ever.

Brunson’s WWE ties run deep. He appeared on *Friday Night SmackDown* in 2024, squaring off with Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton in a viral segment. That night, he unknowingly previewed the Eastern Conference Finals a year later. Now, he’s set to make another crossover appearance at WWE’s *Saturday Night’s Main Event* on July 18, 2026, at Madison Square Garden-the Knicks’ home arena.

What comes next for Brunson?

The Knicks’ king of New York isn’t slowing down. After sealing his Finals MVP legacy, he’s preparing for his second season as the franchise’s face. His WWE cameo on July 18 will give fans a chance to see him in a new role-one that’s already drawing buzz ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. Expect a thunderous ovation when he steps into the ring.

And the chair? Ripley isn’t letting it go anytime soon.