Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents The Rock and Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future; Oba Femi Missing from NXT
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report | November 27, 2024
The WWE Universe has been buzzing with recent developments involving some of wrestling’s biggest names, from Roman Reigns’ insights into WrestleMania 40 opponents to boxer Tommy Fury’s emerging interest in pro wrestling, and the mysterious absence of NXT standout Oba Femi. Here’s a detailed update.
Roman Reigns Comments on Facing The Rock and Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40
In a candid interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE superstar Roman Reigns opened up about the shifting main event plans leading up to WrestleMania 40. Fans initially anticipated a marquee match between Reigns and the legendary Rock but ultimately saw Reigns face Cody Rhodes on Night 1, before dropping the WWE Championship to Rhodes in the main event of Night 2. Reigns emphasized that the identity of his opponent was not a concern as long as he was in the main event spotlight. “It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with… They are trying to stop history from happening, trying to take us off the pinnacle right now, so it was the same task in hand for me,” said Reigns.
After Cody Rhodes won the men’s 2024 Royal Rumble, he initially ruled out challenging Reigns for the WWE title at WrestleMania, which appeared to open the door for The Rock’s return to the main event scene. However, fan backlash led Rhodes to reverse course, prompting The Rock to turn heel, rebranding as “The Final Boss,” and ally with Reigns. The Rock and Reigns joined forces to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40 Night 1. When asked about the possibility of a future Reigns vs. Rock showdown, Reigns stated it largely depends 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.” The Rock made an unexpected WWE appearance last month at Bad Blood, but his intentions remain unclear. WWE’s upcoming Survivor Series WarGames match, which pits The Bloodline against its original incarnation, could be an opportune moment for The Rock’s return and to possibly build toward a classic family rivalry.
Tommy Fury Hints at Potential WWE Career
British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, recently indicated interest in stepping into the pro wrestling arena with WWE. On Sunday, Fury shared a YouTube video taking fans behind the scenes at a WWE event during the UK tour.
“There’s been a great night here, all the wrestlers showing love — big up to Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, Gunther, all of them,” Fury said. “Thank you to WWE for the appreciation. I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day. Who knows?”
Tommy Fury is undefeated in his boxing career with a 10-0 record and notably handed Jake Paul his only professional loss. Given his sporting pedigree and connections with the Paul family, there’s potential for a crossover feud with Logan Paul, who is a prominent WWE Superstar and former United States Champion. WWE could potentially capitalize on a "Fury brothers vs. Paul brothers" storyline to attract a broader mainstream audience.
Oba Femi Reportedly Absent from NXT After Recent Losses
NXT fans have noticed the absence of former North American Champion Oba Femi, who has not appeared at NXT tapings since his defeat to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. According to Fightful Select, there has been no backstage presence or updates on Femi’s status, sparking speculation about the nature of his hiatus. After debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi quickly rose through the ranks by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. He held the title for a record 272 days before losing it to D’Angelo last month and subsequently dropping a rematch.
It is unclear if his absence signals an injury, a break to regroup following two high-profile losses, or preparation for a possible main roster call-up. WWE might also be holding him off TV to protect his momentum and build a strong return storyline. If and when he returns, Femi is widely seen as a prime contender to challenge for the NXT Championship, potentially dethroning current champion Trick Williams.
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Photo Caption: Roman Reigns and The Rock celebrate their victory over Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins during WrestleMania 40 Night 1 in Philadelphia on April 6, 2024. (WWE/Getty Images)