The Ripped Ref meme, often featuring legendary NFL official Ed Hochuli or other notably muscular referees like the viral 2022 World Cup officials, centers on the humor of a sports official having an incredibly shredded physique. These images went viral as fans marveled at referees who appeared more physically imposing than the professional athletes they were officiating. In the world of memes, the Ripped Ref is used to represent absolute authority, 'big brain' energy combined with physical strength, or the feeling of being hilariously over-prepared for a simple task. It is the go-to template for when you want to flex your knowledge or assert dominance in a situation where the opposition is clearly outmatched.