Roman Reigns Reflects on The Rock, Cody Rhodes, as Tommy Fury Eyes WWE, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Sparks Speculation
By Mike Chiari | Bleacher Report | November 27, 2024
As the WWE Universe continues to buzz with exciting developments, recent interviews and backstage reports have shed light on key storylines and potential future signings. Here’s a comprehensive update on Roman Reigns’ thoughts about his WrestleMania 40 opponents, boxer Tommy Fury’s possible wrestling ambitions, and intriguing rumors around NXT standout Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40: The Rock, Cody Rhodes & Future Matchups
During a recent appearance on the Sports Illustrated Media podcast with Jimmy Traina, WWE’s Tribal Chief Roman Reigns opened up about his WrestleMania 40 main event experience—and the shifting plans involving Cody Rhodes and The Rock. The changing landscape saw Rhodes initially winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but stepping away from challenging Reigns for the WWE Championship, seemingly paving the way for The Rock to take that spot. However, fan reaction led to a reversal, resulting in The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss,” aligning with Reigns in a team-up victory over Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40. The very next night, Rhodes defeated Reigns to capture the WWE title.
Reigns emphasized that it never mattered to him who stood across the ring, stating, “I was the main event. I’m the guy everyone wanted to dance with. … It didn’t matter who it was. They’re trying to stop history from happening.” When asked about a future match with The Rock, Reigns left the door open, noting the importance of 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’s unannounced WWE return last month at Bad Blood stirred speculation, though no clear direction was revealed. With the buildup to Sunday’s Survivor Series WarGames match featuring the new and original Bloodlines, many eyes will be watching to see if The Rock reemerges and sets the stage for a future clash with his cousin.
Tommy Fury Expresses Interest in WWE
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has hinted at exploring a potential pro wrestling career with WWE. Footage surfaced this week showing Fury backstage during WWE’s U.K. tour. In a YouTube video, he warmly praised WWE Superstars like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, characterizing the night as a memorable experience and teasing, “I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows?”
Tommy Fury brings a unique crossover appeal, boasting an undefeated 10-0 boxing record and notably defeating Jake Paul. His connection to the Paul family, particularly Logan Paul—a WWE Superstar and former United States Champion—could set the stage for compelling wrestling storylines, including potential Fury brothers vs. Paul brothers encounters that might attract broader mainstream audiences.
Oba Femi’s Unexplained Absence from NXT Programming
Meanwhile, former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has reportedly been missing from NXT tapings since late October. Fightful Select reported that Femi has not been seen backstage or on television since his back-to-back defeats to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27, sparking speculation regarding the reason for his absence.
Femi debuted on NXT television in April 2023, quickly establishing himself by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee, holding the title an impressive 272 days. His recent losses may have prompted a temporary hiatus, either to recuperate from injury or to allow storylines to recalibrate.
Though unclear, his absence could signal an impending call-up to WWE’s main roster or a strategic creative reset. Fans eager to see Femi return might anticipate a run at the NXT Championship, potentially positioning him as the next challenger to Trick Williams.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for ongoing coverage of WWE news, rumors, and insights as the wrestling world evolves.
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