Roman Reigns Talks The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE, and NXT’s Oba Femi Rumors
Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates from the WWE universe, including Roman Reigns’ recent comments on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, boxer Tommy Fury’s potential WWE aspirations, and speculation around NXT star Oba Femi’s recent absence.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 and Potential Match with The Rock
In a detailed interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE superstar Roman Reigns opened up about his experience headlining WrestleMania 40 and the shifting dynamics involving The Rock and Cody Rhodes.
Reigns revealed he was indifferent about facing Rhodes instead of The Rock at WrestleMania 40, emphasizing that his focus was on being the main event and defending the WWE Championship, regardless of the opponent. He said, "It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with… They are trying to stop history from happening… it was the same task in hand for me."
The storyline saw Rhodes winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but initially declining to face Reigns for the title at WrestleMania. This led to speculation that The Rock would step in for the championship match. However, fan backlash caused a quick reversal, resulting in The Rock turning heel, adopting the moniker “The Final Boss,” and teaming with Reigns.
On Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, The Rock and Reigns defeated Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins, with Rhodes overcoming Reigns to claim the WWE Championship on Night 2. The highly anticipated Rock vs. Reigns match did not happen, but Reigns suggested it could still be in the cards if fans show enough enthusiasm. He stated, “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen.”
The Rock made a surprise return at Bad Blood last month but has not made further appearances, leaving open the possibility for future storyline developments, potentially at upcoming events like Survivor Series.
Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Ambitions Following Backstage Visit
British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has hinted at a potential future in professional wrestling. In a recent YouTube video filmed backstage at a WWE event during their UK tour, Fury expressed his admiration for WWE stars and the experience of being at a WWE show.
Fury said, “I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.” The 25-year-old is undefeated in professional boxing (10-0) and notably holds a win over influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul.
His familial connection to Tyson Fury, who had a one-off WWE match in 2019 and has made notable WWE appearances, combined with his boxing credentials, could make Tommy an intriguing addition to the WWE roster. The entertainment value of a potential tag team involving Fury brothers against the Paul brothers—Logan Paul being a current WWE Superstar—also creates narrative possibilities appealing to a mainstream audience.
Rumors Swirl Around NXT Star Oba Femi’s Absence
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has not been seen on NXT programming since his loss at Halloween Havoc on October 27 to Tony D’Angelo. Reports from Fightful Select indicate no signs of Femi backstage at tapings for over a month, creating speculation about his status.
Femi had an impressive run after debuting in April 2023, including winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and holding the North American Championship for a record 272 days before relinquishing it to D’Angelo. He also lost a rematch at Halloween Havoc, after which he quietly disappeared from television.
The reasons for Femi’s absence remain unclear; it could be to allow him to recover from losses, possibly an injury, or to prepare for a main roster call-up. Industry insiders also suggest it might be a strategic move by NXT producers to give Femi time away until his momentum can be rebuilt. When he returns, Femi is seen as a prime contender for the NXT Championship, potentially positioning him as the one to dethrone current champion Trick Williams.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for all the latest developments in WWE and professional wrestling.