Roman Reigns Reflects on Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Career, NXT Updates on Oba Femi
Bleacher Report’s latest WWE news roundup covers insights from Roman Reigns about his high-profile WrestleMania 40 matches, boxer Tommy Fury hinting at a future in WWE, and updates on NXT star Oba Femi’s recent absence.
Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40
During an interview on the SI Media podcast, Roman Reigns shared his thoughts regarding the shifting main event lineup at WrestleMania 40, where he faced Cody Rhodes after much anticipation about possibly wrestling his cousin, The Rock. When asked if he was disappointed not to face The Rock, Reigns emphasized that being in the main event was what mattered most to him.
“It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with,” Reigns said. “They’re trying to stop history from happening. They’re trying to take us off the pinnacle right now. So it was the same task in hand for me.”
After Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble and initially declined a title match against Reigns at WrestleMania 40, fans reacted negatively. This led to The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss,” aligning with Reigns. Together they defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, before Rhodes reclaimed the WWE Championship against Reigns on Night 2. Reigns also addressed the potential for a future match against The Rock, noting that fan interest would be key:
“If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen.”
The Rock surprised fans with an unannounced return at Bad Blood last month, though he has yet to specify his intentions. With the upcoming WarGames match featuring the Bloodline factions at Survivor Series, speculation is growing about possible Rock involvement to build toward a future showdown.
Tommy Fury Shows Interest in WWE Wrestling
British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, hinted at potential aspirations in professional wrestling after attending WWE’s recent UK tour. In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury shared backstage footage and expressed gratitude toward WWE superstars like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
“Big up to the WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day. Who knows?” Fury remarked.
Tommy Fury boasts an undefeated 10-0 boxing record and is the only fighter to have officially defeated Jake Paul, making him a notable figure with crossover appeal. Given Tyson Fury’s prior WWE involvement—including a match at Crown Jewel 2019 and recent backstage presence—Tommy’s potential WWE debut fits a pattern. WWE could capitalize on a possible rivalry or tag team storyline involving Tommy and the Paul brothers, including Logan Paul, a current WWE Superstar.
Oba Femi Missing from NXT TV After Key Losses
Former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has not appeared on NXT programming since his October 27 loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc. Fightful Select reports no backstage presence for Femi in recent NXT tapings, though reasons for his absence remain undisclosed.
After debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi rapidly ascended, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and securing a record 272-day reign as North American Champion. His unexpected defeat to D’Angelo ended that streak, with a second loss to D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc.
Femi’s current hiatus could be a strategic pause for character recalibration or recovery from injury. It also fuels speculation he may be preparing for a promotion to WWE’s main roster. When he returns, many expect Femi to be a strong contender for the NXT Championship.
Stay tuned for further WWE updates as storylines evolve and stars like Reigns, Fury, and Femi continue their respective journeys within the company.