Roman Reigns Discusses The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Debut; Oba Femi Missing from NXT
By Mike Chiari, November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates from the WWE universe, covering insights from Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40, Tommy Fury’s potential WWE ambitions, and rumors surrounding NXT star Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Shares Thoughts on The Rock and Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40
Roman Reigns recently appeared on the SI Media podcast hosted by Jimmy Traina, where he opened up about his experiences facing both The Rock and Cody Rhodes in the main event of WrestleMania 40. When asked whether he was disappointed that he wrestled Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock at WrestleMania, Reigns expressed that it did not matter to him who he faced — as long as he was the main event. "I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with," Reigns said, emphasizing his role as the “hot chick” everyone sought to dethrone. He acknowledged the competitive challenge regardless of the opponent, highlighting the importance of defending his championship against all contenders.
This backstory came after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but initially stated he would not challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40. It appeared The Rock would take that spot. However, following fan backlash, Rhodes reversed his decision, prompting The Rock to heel turn as "The Final Boss" and align himself with Reigns. The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, while Rhodes ended up winning the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. Regarding the much-anticipated Reigns vs. The Rock one-on-one match that didn’t happen at WrestleMania, Reigns did not rule out future possibilities. "If the fans are loud enough and passionate enough about something," he said, "we’re a company that listens." He added, "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 last month at Bad Blood but has not appeared since. With the upcoming WarGames match at Survivor Series featuring new and original versions of The Bloodline, many speculate The Rock could return to build towards a showdown against his cousin.
Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Future Following UK Tour Visit
Boxer Tommy Fury has teased possible involvement with WWE, sharing a behind-the-scenes look at a WWE event during the company’s recent UK tour. In a video posted on YouTube, Fury expressed appreciation for WWE superstars like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, and hinted at climbing the ropes himself one day.
"So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love," Fury said. "I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day. Who knows?"
Fury, 25, younger brother of former world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, has established his own reputation in boxing, holding an undefeated record and famously defeating Jake Paul.
His connection to the Paul family, combined with WWE’s recent interest in Logan Paul as a performer, fuels speculation that Tommy Fury could join WWE, potentially setting up a lucrative rivalry or tag match involving the Fury and Paul brothers. WWE observers believe he would be a natural fit to attract mainstream attention.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Raises Questions
Reports from Fightful Select reveal that former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has been absent from NXT tapings for the past month following a tough loss at Halloween Havoc.
Femi lost his North American Championship to Tony D’Angelo on October 27, ending a dominant title reign of 272 days — the longest in the title’s history. He also suffered defeat in their rematch at the same event, and since then, has not been featured on NXT broadcasts nor reported backstage at tapings.
The reasons for his absence remain unclear. It could be a strategic move by NXT creative to allow Femi time to recover from the emotional impact of two high-profile losses, a possible injury, or indicate an upcoming promotion to WWE’s main roster.
Should Femi return soon, he is viewed as a strong contender for the NXT Championship and a key player to rejuvenate the brand’s competitive scene.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for more updates across the wrestling world and your favorite WWE Superstars.
Photo: Roman Reigns and The Rock share a moment after their WrestleMania 40 win on Night 1. (Image courtesy WWE/Getty Images)