Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40, The Rock, and Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Future; NXT Star Oba Femi’s Recent Absence
In the latest updates from the WWE Universe, several key developments have unfolded involving prominent wrestling figures Roman Reigns, The Rock, Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury, and NXT standout Oba Femi. Here’s a detailed look at the recent news and rumors shaping the world of professional wrestling.
Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Potential Match with The Rock
Roman Reigns, also known as "The Tribal Chief," shared his thoughts during an interview on the SI Media podcast with Jimmy Traina. Reigns addressed the speculation and changes regarding his WrestleMania 40 opponents, focusing on the decision to face Cody Rhodes rather than The Rock in the event’s main event.
Responding to whether he was disappointed not to battle The Rock, Reigns emphasized that it didn’t matter to him 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, you know. I am the hot chick, everyone wanted to take me out. They are trying to stop history from happening. They want to take us off the pinnacle right now, so it was the same task in hand for me,” Reigns explained.
Initially, after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble match, he declared he wouldn’t challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, which paved the way for anticipation of a Reigns vs. The Rock showdown. However, negative fan reactions led to a reversal where Rhodes decided to challenge Reigns, coinciding with The Rock turning heel and adopting the persona of "The Final Boss," aligning himself with Reigns.
At WrestleMania 40, The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1. On Night 2, Rhodes captured the WWE title from Reigns in the main event.
Looking ahead, when asked if a match between Reigns and The Rock could still happen, Reigns acknowledged it is possible should the fans demand it loud and clear.
“If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” he said.
The Rock recently made an unannounced WWE return at the Bad Blood event last month but hasn’t clarified his WWE intentions or appeared again since. With the Bloodline factions clashing in a WarGames match at Survivor Series, some speculate The Rock might reemerge to build toward a future marquee match against his cousin Roman Reigns.
Tommy Fury Teases Prospective WWE Career
British professional boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, teased the possibility of entering the pro wrestling world with WWE. On Sunday, Fury posted a YouTube video from backstage at a WWE event during the company’s UK tour.
He expressed gratitude toward WWE superstars, including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, and spoke openly about potentially climbing into the wrestling ring one day.
“Thank you to WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night,” Fury stated.
Tommy Fury is currently undefeated in professional boxing and notably holds the only win over YouTube sensation Jake Paul. Given his association with the Paul family and boxing credentials, a crossover WWE career could set up intriguing matchups, potentially involving Logan Paul, who is an active WWE Superstar and former United States Champion.
Oba Femi Absent from NXT Tapings Amid Uncertainty
Meanwhile, NXT star Oba Femi has quietly been absent from WWE’s NXT tapings for roughly a month following his loss at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Fightful Select reported no backstage sightings or involvement of Femi since his defeat to Tony D’Angelo, raising speculation about his current status.
Femi, who debuted on NXT television in April 2023, had a meteoric rise, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship by defeating Dragon Lee. His reign lasted a remarkable 272 days before he unexpectedly lost the title to D’Angelo. He also fell in a rematch at Halloween Havoc and has not appeared on NXT programming since.
The reasons behind his absence remain unclear—it could be a strategic off-screen break after tough losses, injury recovery, or preparations for a future main roster call-up. Notably, he remains a strong candidate to challenge for the NXT Championship upon his return, perhaps as the one to dethrone the current titleholder, Trick Williams.
Stay tuned for further wrestling news and insights as the WWE landscape continues to evolve with intriguing storylines, emerging talent, and potential superstar returns. For more hot topics in pro wrestling, listeners can check out the latest episode of Ring Rust Radio.