Roman Reigns Talks The Rock and Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE; NXT’s Oba Femi Absent
Bleacher Report provides the latest updates from the WWE Universe, including insights from Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40 opponents, boxer Tommy Fury’s potential WWE interest, and rumors surrounding NXT’s Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Future Matchups
In a recent interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE superstar Roman Reigns opened up about his experience facing Cody Rhodes rather than The Rock at WrestleMania 40. Reigns explained that it didn’t matter to him who stood across the ring, as long as he was in the main event spotlight:
"It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with, you know. I am the hot chick, everyone wanted to take me out. It’s where, we just need to get there and defend this thing. It didn’t matter who it is. They are trying to stop history from happening. They are trying to take us off the pinnacle right now, so it was the same task in hand for me."
The storyline surrounding the WrestleMania 40 main event took several twists, with Cody Rhodes winning the 2024 Royal Rumble but initially refusing to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship. This shift seemingly opened the door for The Rock to step into the main event spot. Negative fan feedback led to Rhodes reversing his decision, with The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss” and teaming up with Reigns. Together, Reigns and The Rock defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, before Rhodes reclaimed the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. When asked about the possibility of a future match against The Rock, Reigns indicated that such a match could happen if the fans demand it:
"I think our fanbase and the company’s proven that if our fans are loud enough and passionate enough about something, we’re a company who—we’re not being dictated to. We have a vision for where we’re trying to go, but we know who the consumers are. We know who’s paying their hard-earned money, and we want to satisfy those people."
He added, “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen.”
The Rock made a surprise WWE appearance last month at Bad Blood but has not fully revealed his plans since. With upcoming clashes featuring The Bloodline factions, there could be opportunities for The Rock and Reigns to renew their rivalry inside the ring.
Tommy Fury Shows Interest in WWE Wrestling
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, hinted at possible involvement with WWE following the company’s recent UK tour.
In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury shared his experience backstage:
“So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love. Big up to Randy Orton. Absolutely amazing guy. Big up to Cody Rhodes, all of them, Gunther, the lot of them. Thank you to the WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.”
Tommy Fury boasts an undefeated 10-0 professional boxing record and is notable for being the only boxer to defeat Jake Paul, making him an intriguing potential crossover star. Given his relationship with the Paul family—whose other brother Logan Paul is an established WWE Superstar—Tommy Fury could be a natural fit for WWE storylines that appeal to mainstream audiences.
His brother Tyson Fury previously participated in a WWE match at Crown Jewel 2019 and famously intervened during WWE Clash at the Castle 2022 to stop Austin Theory from cashing in the Money in the Bank contract.
NXT’s Oba Femi Reportedly Absent From Recent Taping
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has been notably absent from NXT tapings over the past month, according to Fightful Select.
Femi lost his North American title to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27, ending his record 272-day reign. Since then, he has not appeared on NXT, and the reason for his absence is unclear.
Possible explanations include:
- Time off to regroup after two significant losses.
- Preparation for an eventual WWE main roster call-up.
- Recovery from a possible injury.
- A creative decision to keep him off TV until his storyline impact settles.
After debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi had a strong start, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American title. When he returns, many expect him to be a top contender for the NXT Championship, potentially taking the title from current champion Trick Williams.
Stay Tuned
Bleacher Report continues to monitor WWE news and rumors, keeping fans updated on all the latest developments. For more hot wrestling topics, including analysis and interviews, fans can tune in to Ring Rust Radio and other specialized content.
Photo Caption:
The Rock and Roman Reigns celebrate after defeating Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins in the WrestleMania 40 Night 1 main event at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by WWE/Getty Images)