WWE Updates: Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE, NXT Rumors on Oba Femi
Bleacher Report brings the latest updates from the WWE Universe, including insights from Roman Reigns, potential wrestling interest from boxer Tommy Fury, and current status rumors about NXT star Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Future Prospects with The Rock
In a recent podcast appearance on the SI Media podcast hosted by Jimmy Traina, WWE superstar Roman Reigns shared his perspective on his WrestleMania 40 main event experience, where he faced Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock. Speaking candidly about the decision, Reigns emphasized that being in the main event was what truly mattered to him.
When asked if he was disappointed not to face The Rock, Reigns responded, “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. It’s where, we just need to get there and defend this thing. 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, so it was the same task in hand for me.”
Reigns elaborated on the unfolding storyline, recalling how Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but initially refused to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40. This led to speculation that The Rock would take that spot. After fans reacted negatively, Rhodes reversed course, and The Rock turned heel, adopting the moniker "The Final Boss" and aligning with Reigns. The Rock and Reigns then teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes reclaiming the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. Looking ahead, Reigns discussed the possibility of a future match with The Rock, contingent 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,” he said, noting WWE’s responsiveness to its audience.
The Rock made an unannounced return to WWE programming last month at the Bad Blood event, making his intentions unclear. With the upcoming WarGames match at Survivor Series featuring the new and original Bloodline factions, speculation is rife that The Rock could re-enter the fray to build towards a clash with his cousin, Roman Reigns.
Boxer Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Ambitions
Tommy Fury, well-known in the boxing world and younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has hinted at a potential future in pro wrestling with WWE. In a YouTube video posted during WWE’s recent UK tour, Fury expressed enthusiasm after backstage interactions with WWE Superstars.
Highlighting his experience, Fury said, “So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love. Big up to Randy Orton. Absolutely amazing guy. Big up to Cody Rhodes, all of them, Gunther, the lot of them. Thank you to the WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.”
Tommy Fury’s connection to the wrestling world is bolstered by his brother Tyson’s past WWE involvement, including a match at Crown Jewel 2019 and a notable run-in at WWE Clash at the Castle in 2022. Tommy himself sports an undefeated boxing record and is notably the only fighter to have defeated Jake Paul, who along with his brother Logan Paul, has a strong presence in WWE.
Given these dynamics, a potential wrestling storyline featuring the Fury brothers versus the Paul brothers could draw significant mainstream appeal. WWE is likely considering the possibilities should Tommy decide to transition into wrestling.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Raises Questions
Reports have surfaced indicating that former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has been absent from NXT tapings since his loss at Halloween Havoc on October 27, where he dropped the title to Tony D’Angelo. According to Fightful Select, Femi has not been backstage or seen on NXT since that defeat.
The reasons behind his absence remain unclear. It could represent a strategic break to regroup after two setbacks in a row, possibly preparing for future storylines or even a main roster call-up. Alternatively, he might be recovering from an injury or simply being kept off television to let the impact of his losses subside.
Since debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi enjoyed a remarkable rise—including a win in the NXT Breakout Tournament and a 272-day reign as North American Champion, the longest in that title’s history. If and when he returns, many anticipate Femi challenging for the NXT Championship, potentially positioning him to dethrone current titleholder Trick Williams.
For ongoing updates on these storylines and more, wrestling fans can tune into Ring Rust Radio and follow Bleacher Report’s comprehensive coverage of WWE news.
Photo Caption: The Rock and Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia on April 6, 2024. (Photo credit: WWE/Getty Images)
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