Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock and Cody Rhodes Rivalries; Tommy Fury Considers WWE Future; NXT Star Oba Femi Missing from Recent Tapings
In a recent in-depth interview, Roman Reigns shared candid thoughts about his WrestleMania 40 main event opponents, The Rock and Cody Rhodes, while the WWE Universe also buzzes with news of boxer-turned-wrestling hopeful Tommy Fury and fresh rumors surrounding NXT’s Oba Femi. Here is a comprehensive update on these key storylines.
Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 and Talks Potential Future Match with The Rock
During an appearance on the SI Media podcast hosted by Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, Roman Reigns addressed the sometimes shifting main event plans leading up to WrestleMania 40, where he ultimately faced Cody Rhodes. Reigns explained that he was indifferent about his opponent as long as he remained in the spotlight at the event.
Reigns said, “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.” He remarked that his real mission was to defend the WWE Championship and continue his historic run, regardless of the challenger.
The path to WrestleMania 40’s main event saw some intriguing zigzags. After Cody Rhodes won the men’s Royal Rumble match of 2024, he initially declared he would not challenge Reigns for the title, paving the way for The Rock’s anticipated return to battle Reigns. However, fan backlash to that plan resulted in Rhodes reversing course and reclaiming his spot as challenger, which corresponded with The Rock’s heel turn as “The Final Boss” who allied himself with Reigns. Ultimately, The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, while Rhodes dethroned Reigns on Night 2. When asked about the long-rumored showdown between himself and The Rock, Reigns acknowledged the possibility remains open, saying, "If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen." Notably, The Rock made a surprise WWE appearance last month at Bad Blood but has yet to clarify his intentions. With Survivor Series’ upcoming WarGames match set to feature a conflict between the new and original Bloodline factions, speculation is rife that The Rock may return to build toward a future collision with his cousin.
Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Ambitions
Meanwhile, British boxer Tommy Fury has dropped subtle hints about a potential pro wrestling future with WWE. In a recent YouTube video filmed backstage at a WWE event during the company’s UK tour, Fury expressed admiration for WWE talent such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, thanking the organization for their hospitality.
He stated, “I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.”
Tommy Fury, brother of former world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury—who himself has a legacy in WWE—currently boasts an undefeated 10-0 professional boxing record. He notably holds a victory over social media superstar Jake Paul, whose brother Logan Paul is an established WWE Superstar and former United States Champion. This familial connection and Tommy’s growing sports profile position him as a promising candidate to join WWE, potentially engaging in high-profile matches with the Paul brothers or participating in crossover tag bouts.
Oba Femi Absent from NXT Following Title Loss
On the developmental front, notable NXT talent Oba Femi has reportedly been absent from recent NXT tapings, raising questions about his current status within WWE. Fightful Select reports that Femi has not been seen backstage at NXT since his October 27 loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc.
Femi’s absence comes in the aftermath of two significant defeats, including dropping the North American Championship after a record-setting 272-day reign. After debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi quickly ascended by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American title from Dragon Lee. Since losing both the championship and a subsequent rematch to D’Angelo, he has been off programming.
While the exact reason for the hiatus is unclear—ranging from storyline reset, injury, or preparations for a main roster promotion—Femi remains a strong contender to challenge for the NXT Championship upon his return.
Looking Ahead
Roman Reigns remains a central figure in WWE’s landscape, balancing legacy connections with The Rock while facing fresh challengers like Cody Rhodes. Tommy Fury’s interest in wrestling signals WWE’s ongoing appeal to mainstream athletes, hinting at exciting cross-sport dynamics in the future. Meanwhile, the NXT scene continues evolving with stars like Oba Femi potentially poised for renewed pushes.
Fans can expect continued developments around these stories as WWE charts its path through 2024 and beyond.