Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40, Possible Rock Match; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future; NXT Updates on Oba Femi
Roman Reigns Talks WrestleMania 40 and The Rock
Roman Reigns recently shared insights on his experiences leading up to and during WrestleMania 40, particularly his interactions with The Rock and Cody Rhodes. Speaking on the Sports Illustrated podcast with Jimmy Traina, Reigns revealed that he was unfazed by the switch from a potential WrestleMania showdown with The Rock to facing Cody Rhodes instead.
Reigns stated, "It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with… It was the same task in hand for me." Essentially, Reigns emphasized that his focus was on maintaining his championship and overcoming challengers regardless of who they were.
The path to WrestleMania 40 saw some twists. After Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, he initially declined to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at the event. This opened the door for The Rock’s anticipated return as a challenger. However, following negative fan reactions, Rhodes reversed course, creating an unexpected alliance as The Rock turned heel and joined forces with Reigns. Ultimately, The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes capturing the WWE title from Reigns in the main event on Night 2. When asked whether a match between Reigns and The Rock might still happen, Reigns suggested it remains a real possibility if the fans demand it. "If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen," he noted. The Rock made a surprise WWE appearance last month at the Bad Blood event but has not indicated any clear plans since. With ongoing storylines such as the WarGames match at Survivor Series involving different Bloodline factions, fans may soon see The Rock re-enter the picture, potentially setting up the dream match with his cousin.
Tommy Fury Drops Hints About Joining WWE
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, appears open to stepping into professional wrestling. Recently backstage at a WWE live event in the United Kingdom, Fury posted a video expressing appreciation for the WWE superstars he met, including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
He teased fans by saying, "I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day. Who knows?" Fury’s comments reflect an enthusiasm for WWE, which is notable given his family’s history with the company — Tyson Fury himself wrestled Braun Strowman at WWE Crown Jewel in 2019. Tommy Fury, undefeated in his pro boxing career and known for his victory over Jake Paul, could bring crossover appeal to WWE, particularly in storylines involving the Paul brothers, with Logan Paul currently a WWE Superstar and former U.S. Champion.
NXT Rumors: Oba Femi’s Absence Sparks Speculation
In NXT news, former North American Champion Oba Femi has not appeared on the brand’s programming or tapings since Halloween Havoc on October 27, where he lost his title to Tony D’Angelo. Sources reported by Fightful Select indicate Femi’s absence has lasted over a month, though there is no official explanation.
Femi had been a dominant force since debuting on NXT television in April 2023, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and holding the North American Championship for a record 272 days before his loss. The hiatus could be a strategic move to allow him to regroup following back-to-back losses or possibly due to undisclosed injury concerns.
Looking forward, many speculate that Femi could soon return either to challenge for the NXT Championship or possibly receive a call-up to WWE’s main roster. He remains a strong contender in NXT’s landscape and could play a pivotal role in future storylines.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
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Photo credit: WWE/Getty Images
Roman Reigns and The Rock after their victory over Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40, April 6, 2024 – Philadelphia, PA.