Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock and Cody Rhodes Rivalries; Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Ambitions; Oba Femi’s Recent NXT Absence Sparks Speculation
The WWE Universe has been buzzing with news from multiple fronts recently, and Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates featuring insights from Roman Reigns, promising prospects like Tommy Fury, and intriguing developments in NXT with Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Future Prospects with The Rock
Roman Reigns, WWE’s dominant figure known as The Tribal Chief, discussed his WrestleMania 40 main event experience and potential future clashes on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina. The conversation touched on the high-profile match-up that initially seemed poised to pit Reigns against his legendary cousin, The Rock — a bout fans eagerly anticipated — but ultimately evolved into Roman fighting Cody Rhodes instead.
When questioned about possible disappointment facing Rhodes rather than The Rock, Reigns maintained a confident stance, emphasizing that it was the main event status that mattered most. “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,” he explained. Reigns highlighted his role as the centerpiece of the show and the target everyone wanted to dethrone, underscoring that defeating any challenger was the key objective.
The initial storyline had Cody Rhodes, the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble winner, forego a title challenge against Reigns at WrestleMania, paving the way for The Rock to step in. However, fan backlash prompted a reversal, leading to The Rock’s heel turn as "The Final Boss" and his alliance with Reigns. The Rock and Reigns teamed to secure a victory over Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes reclaiming the WWE Championship on Night 2. Looking ahead, Reigns acknowledged the possibility of a future match against The Rock but stressed it would depend on fan demand. “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” Reigns said, signaling openness to a long-awaited showdown between the two icons.
Recently, The Rock made a surprise WWE return at Bad Blood but left his intentions unclear. With the intense involvement of The Bloodline factions in a WarGames match at Survivor Series, speculation is rife that The Rock could reappear soon to further tension and build anticipation for a potential clash with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Shows Interest in WWE Amid Rising Star Status
In an exciting development from the world of boxing crossing into professional wrestling, Tommy Fury, undefeated in his pro boxing career and younger brother to former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, hinted at exploring opportunities within WWE.
Fury posted a YouTube video from backstage at a recent WWE show in the United Kingdom, where he interacted with notable stars such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther. “Thank you to the WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day,” he said, fueling speculation about his future in pro wrestling.
His brother Tyson Fury previously made a memorable WWE appearance at Crown Jewel 2019 and famously intervened during WWE Clash at the Castle 2022, knocking out Austin Theory to prevent a Money in the Bank cash-in.
Given Tommy Fury’s undefeated boxing trajectory and his connection to the Paul family—having bested Jake Paul—he could become a compelling rival or ally for Logan Paul, a WWE Superstar and former United States Champion. A tag team face-off featuring the Fury brothers vs. the Paul brothers could attract significant mainstream attention, suggesting WWE may keep the door open for Tommy Fury’s involvement.
Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Leaves Fans Wondering
Fans of WWE’s developmental brand NXT have noted the recent absence of former North American Champion Oba Femi, sparking rumors and speculation about his status. Reports from Fightful Select indicate that Femi has not been present at NXT tapings since his October 27 loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc.
The reason behind Femi’s disappearance from television is not officially confirmed. It may be a strategic hiatus following two consecutive losses, including the end of his reign as North American Champion after an impressive 272-day run. Alternatively, the break could be to allow for recovery from injury or possibly preparation for a call-up to WWE’s main roster.
Since debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi quickly rose through the ranks, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship. Upon his return, many fans expect him to remain a key contender, potentially challenging for the NXT Championship and possibly taking the title from current holder Trick Williams.
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