Roman Reigns Talks The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Spot; NXT Rumors on Oba Femi
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report – November 27, 2024
The WWE Universe has plenty to discuss following recent developments involving Roman Reigns, The Rock, Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury, and NXT star Oba Femi. Here’s a comprehensive update on these hot topics currently stirring excitement and speculation within the world of professional wrestling.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents: The Rock and Cody Rhodes
Roman Reigns recently sat down for an interview on the SI Media podcast hosted by Jimmy Traina, where he addressed the rollercoaster surrounding his WrestleMania 40 main event opponent. Fans were initially led to believe Reigns would face the legendary The Rock, but after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, plans appeared to shift back and forth between the two challengers.
When asked whether he was disappointed to face Rhodes instead of The Rock, Reigns made it clear that the opponent did not matter as long as he was main eventing the biggest show of the year. “It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with,” Reigns explained, acknowledging the pressure of defending his WWE Championship regardless of the challenger.
Interestingly, following Rhodes’ Royal Rumble victory, Rhodes initially declined to challenge Reigns at WrestleMania 40, seemingly paving the way for The Rock to step in. However, fan backlash led to Rhodes changing course, which coincided with The Rock’s unexpected heel turn into “The Final Boss” and an alliance with Reigns. On Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, Reigns and The Rock teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins, but Rhodes ultimately triumphed over Reigns on Night 2 to capture the WWE Championship.
Addressing the possibility of a future match with The Rock, Reigns left the door open, emphasizing that if fans express enough enthusiasm and the WWE roster is aligned, the company would look to make it happen. “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” said Reigns.
The Rock surprised fans with a surprise return at last month’s Bad Blood event but has yet to clarify his plans or appear again since. With the upcoming WarGames match at Survivor Series featuring both the new and original versions of The Bloodline, speculation mounts about whether The Rock might reemerge and set the stage for a long-awaited showdown with his cousin, Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at Possible WWE Ambitions
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has teased the possibility of entering the professional wrestling world. In a recent YouTube video filmed backstage at a WWE UK tour event, Fury shared his excitement meeting top WWE Superstars such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
“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,” Fury said. “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 has carved out a reputation in boxing with an undefeated 10-0 record and notable victories, including being the only man to defeat Jake Paul. His family ties and burgeoning popularity make him a natural fit for WWE storylines, especially as a potential rival or partner for Logan Paul, who is both a WWE Superstar and former United States Champion.
Fans and WWE insiders alike are intrigued by the prospect of a “Paul brothers vs. Fury brothers” tag team rivalry or individual matchups, underscoring Tommy Fury as a compelling candidate for a future WWE career.
Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Sparks Speculation
Reports have indicated that former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has been absent from WWE’s NXT tapings for over a month. According to Fightful Select, there has been no backstage presence of Femi since his rematch loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Since debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi had an impressive run, capturing the NXT Breakout Tournament before cashing in his title opportunity on Dragon Lee. He held the North American Championship for a record 272 days before being dethroned by D’Angelo last month.
The reasons behind Femi’s recent absence remain unclear. It might be a creative pause to allow for a fresh storyline or recovery time after consecutive losses. Alternatively, it could signal preparations for a main roster promotion or a new push back in NXT. Wrestling insiders consider Femi a strong contender to challenge for the NXT Championship and a credible figure to eventually topple Trick Williams for the top title on the brand.
Stay Tuned for More Wrestling Updates
The wrestling world continues to evolve rapidly with twists and turns that keep fans on the edge of their seats. For more in-depth wrestling discussions, highlights, and rumors, listen to Ring Rust Radio and stay updated on all major WWE and pro wrestling news across Bleacher Report.
Photo Caption: Roman Reigns and The Rock celebrate their victory over Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40. (WWE/Getty Images)