WWE Update: Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury’s WWE Interest, and NXT Rumors Surrounding Oba Femi
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report – November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report brings you the latest buzz from the WWE Universe, highlighting Roman Reigns’ insights on WrestleMania 40 opponents, rising boxing star Tommy Fury’s potential WWE aspirations, and the current status of NXT standout Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 and Future Matchups
In a revealing interview with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina on the SI Media podcast, WWE’s “Tribal Chief” Roman Reigns shared his thoughts about the evolving WrestleMania 40 main event scene, which featured him facing off against Cody Rhodes rather than The Rock.
Reigns explained that his focus was always on being the main event attraction, regardless of the opponent. “It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with," he said. “They are trying to stop history from happening, trying to take us off the pinnacle. It was the same task in hand.”
Initially, after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, he declared he wouldn’t challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, leading to speculation that The Rock would take that spot. However, fan backlash caused a reversal, resulting in The Rock turning heel, adopting the moniker “The Final Boss,” and aligning with Reigns. The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes ultimately winning the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. When asked about a potential future match against The Rock, Reigns opened the door, emphasizing that if fans were vocal and supportive enough, WWE would consider making it happen. “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen," he concluded.
The Rock recently made an unexpected WWE return at the Bad Blood event but has yet to clarify his long-term plans. With the ongoing Bloodline storylines and upcoming WarGames match at Survivor Series, fans speculate that The Rock could reemerge, possibly setting the stage for a future showdown with his cousin, Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Aspirations During UK Visit
British professional boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, teased the prospect of a pro wrestling career with WWE. During the company’s recent UK tour, Tommy was seen backstage interacting with WWE superstars and posting a YouTube video highlighting the experience.
In the video, Fury expressed admiration for wrestlers like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, and hinted at the possibility of entering the WWE ring one day. “I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day,” he said.
Tommy Fury boasts an undefeated boxing record of 10-0 and holds the distinction of being the only boxer to defeat Jake Paul. His ties to the Paul family and his boxing credentials make him a natural fit for the WWE universe, where Logan Paul, Jake’s brother, is already an active WWE Superstar and former United States Champion. A tag team rivalry pitting the Fury brothers against the Paul brothers could capture the interest of mainstream audiences and expand WWE’s crossover appeal.
Oba Femi’s Absence Raises NXT Speculation
Former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has been notably absent from WWE’s NXT tapings since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Fightful Select revealed no backstage appearances by Femi have been reported throughout November.
Reasons for his disappearance remain unclear. Speculation ranges from WWE offering him time to reset after losing the North American title—breaking his impressive 272-day reign—to possible preparation for a main roster call-up or dealing with an injury.
Since his April 2023 debut, Femi enjoyed a dominant run, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and securing the North American Championship by defeating Dragon Lee. However, losses to D’Angelo, including at Halloween Havoc, halted his momentum.
If and when Femi returns, he is considered a prime contender for the NXT Championship and could be positioned as the challenger to current titleholder Trick Williams.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for more updates and in-depth coverage of WWE storylines and emerging stars.
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Photo Caption: The Rock and Roman Reigns reflect on their Night 1 WrestleMania 40 victory over Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, April 6, 2024. (Photo by WWE/Getty Images)