Roman Reigns Reflects on The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE; Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Sparks Rumors
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report – November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates and insider information from the WWE Universe, including Roman Reigns’ thoughts on WrestleMania 40, boxer Tommy Fury’s teasing of a WWE future, and NXT star Oba Femi’s recent absence from television.
Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40, The Rock, and Cody Rhodes
Roman Reigns recently opened up about the main event scenario at WrestleMania 40 during an interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina. Reigns offered candid comments about his feelings surrounding the shifting plans between facing The Rock or Cody Rhodes at the marquee event.
When asked if he was disappointed that he faced Rhodes instead of The Rock in the WrestleMania 40 main event, “The Tribal Chief” made it clear that his primary focus was simply being part of the main event spotlight, regardless of the opponent.
“It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with,” Reigns said. “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.”
Originally, after winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, Rhodes declared he would not challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, which appeared to pave the way for The Rock’s involvement. However, fan backlash prompted Rhodes to reconsider, ultimately leading to The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss” and aligning with Reigns. The two cousins teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins in the Night 1 main event, but Rhodes won the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. Reigns was also asked about the possibility of a future match against The Rock, which did not materialize at WrestleMania 40. He expressed openness to the idea, stressing fan demand as a key factor.
“If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” Reigns explained.
The Rock made a surprise return to WWE’s Bad Blood event last month but has yet to reveal his intentions or make a consecutive appearance. With the Bloodline factions colliding in a WarGames match at Survivor Series, speculation is swirling that The Rock could appear again to build toward a long-awaited showdown with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Future
British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has teased a potential future in WWE. Sharing a backstage video from a recent WWE United Kingdom tour, Fury thanked WWE Superstars and personalities like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther for their hospitality.
“So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love,” Fury said in the video. “And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.”
Tommy Fury is 10-0 in professional boxing and has notably beaten Jake Paul. His familial ties and relationships with the Paul family position him well to intersect with WWE storylines, especially given WWE Superstar Logan Paul’s status and history with the company. The prospect of a “Paul brothers vs. Fury brothers” encounter could garner significant mainstream attention.
Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Fuels Speculation
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has been notably absent from NXT tapings for over a month. According to Fightful Select, there has been no backstage activity or appearances since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at WWE Halloween Havoc on October 27. Femi’s absence comes on the heels of two significant losses—first dropping the North American Championship after a record-breaking 272-day reign, followed by a defeat in a rematch with D’Angelo.
While the reasons for his hiatus are not publicly known, possibilities range from recovery time to storyline resets or even a potential main roster call-up. Femi’s strong run since debuting in April 2023, including winning the NXT Breakout Tournament, makes him a likely candidate for future high-profile NXT title pursuits, potentially challenging current champion Trick Williams upon his return.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for ongoing coverage and updates from the world of WWE and beyond.
Listen to the latest episode of Ring Rust Radio for deeper insights and discussion on the hottest wrestling topics.