Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents; Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Ambitions; Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Sparks Speculation
In recent developments within the WWE Universe, Roman Reigns has shared his thoughts on key figures The Rock and Cody Rhodes following WrestleMania 40, while boxer-turned-celebrity Tommy Fury has expressed interest in a possible WWE career. Additionally, rumors surround NXT star Oba Femi’s ongoing absence from television since a significant loss last month.
Roman Reigns on Facing Cody Rhodes Instead of The Rock at WrestleMania 40
During a candid interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE’s Roman Reigns opened up about the dynamic surrounding the WrestleMania 40 main event. The Original Tribal Chief addressed the shifting card, which saw him ultimately defend his WWE Championship against Cody Rhodes rather than The Rock, as initially speculated.
When asked whether he was disappointed not to face The Rock, Reigns was straightforward: the opponent mattered less than the fact that 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,” Reigns said. He acknowledged the shared goal of anyone challenging him was to topple the long-reigning champion from his pinnacle position.
The storyline had taken twists when Rhodes, after winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, initially vowed not to challenge Reigns at WrestleMania. This led WWE to hint at a headline bout between The Rock and Reigns, only for Rhodes to reverse course days later, reigniting their feud. The Rock turned heel as “The Final Boss” and aligned with Reigns, culminating in a tag team victory over Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40. However, the dream singles match between The Rock and Reigns did not materialize, as Rhodes captured the WWE Championship by defeating Reigns on Night 2. Despite missing that marquee showdown, Reigns left the door open for a future clash with The Rock, emphasizing the power of fan enthusiasm in shaping WWE’s plans. “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” he noted.
Tommy Fury Teases Potential WWE Future During UK Tour
Tommy Fury, the undefeated British professional boxer and younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, stirred wrestling fan interest with a recent social media post. Sharing a video backstage at a WWE live event during their United Kingdom tour, Fury expressed appreciation for WWE’s hospitality and hinted at a possible wrestling career. He praised WWE superstars such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, and mused, “I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day.”
Tommy’s boxing record stands at an undefeated 10-0, including a notable victory over social media celebrity Jake Paul. Given the high-profile WWE involvement of Logan Paul, Jake’s brother and current WWE Superstar, a potential feud or storyline involving the Fury and Paul siblings could captivate mainstream audiences. Tommy’s familial ties to Tyson Fury — who himself engaged in WWE moments, including a Crown Jewel 2019 match and a memorable Clash at the Castle 2022 incident — add further intrigue to any possible WWE endeavors.
Oba Femi’s Recent Absence from NXT Sparks Questions
Meanwhile, NXT has yet to feature former North American Champion Oba Femi in recent programming after a difficult finish at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Reports via Fightful Select indicate Femi has not been present at NXT tapings since losing his title to Tony D’Angelo, nor appearing on episodes since falling again in their rematch.
Femi’s rise began impressively, debuting on televised NXT in April 2023, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament, and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. His reign was historic, lasting a record 272 days before D’Angelo ended it.
While the reason for Femi’s absence remains undisclosed, possibilities include a strategic storyline reset, injury recovery, or an impending main roster call-up. Wrestling insiders believe once he returns, Femi is positioned as a strong contender for the NXT Championship and a central figure in future programming.
As WWE continues to evolve its storylines and talent roster, fans can anticipate potential exciting developments involving these key personalities in the coming months.