Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and WrestleMania 40
Roman Reigns recently spoke candidly about his WrestleMania 40 main event experience involving The Rock and Cody Rhodes during an interview on Sports Illustrated’s SI Media podcast. Reigns reflected on the behind-the-scenes changes and fan reactions that influenced the championship storyline going into WWE’s biggest event of the year.
When asked if he was disappointed to face Rhodes instead of The Rock, Reigns made it clear that it wasn’t about the opponent but the spotlight itself. “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.”
The storyline saw Cody Rhodes win the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but initially decline a title shot against Reigns at WrestleMania. WWE then appeared to pivot towards The Rock challenging Reigns, resulting in fan backlash. This led to a reversal with Rhodes accepting a challenge and The Rock turning heel, adopting the “Final Boss” persona and aligning with Reigns.
The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, while Rhodes triumphed over Reigns to capture the WWE Championship on Night 2. Despite the long-rumored Reigns vs. Rock dream match not materializing, Reigns said the door remains open, but only if the fans show their support. “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” he stated.
The Rock made a surprise return to WWE’s Bad Blood event last month, though his future plans remain unclear. With the upcoming Survivor Series featuring a WarGames match between new and original versions of The Bloodline, speculation is rife that The Rock could reappear and potentially build toward a matchup with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Expresses Interest in Joining WWE
British boxer Tommy Fury hinted at a future in professional wrestling after attending a WWE event during the company’s United Kingdom tour. Through a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury gave fans a behind-the-scenes look of his night meeting various WWE superstars including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
“So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love. Big up to Randy Orton, absolutely amazing guy. Big up to Cody Rhodes, all of them, Gunther, the lot of them,” Fury said. “Thank you to WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.”
Tommy Fury follows in the footsteps of his older brother, Tyson Fury, former world heavyweight boxing champion, who previously worked with WWE. Tyson’s sole match came in 2019 at Crown Jewel where he beat Braun Strowman by count-out. His involvement continued with a notable fan moment at WWE Clash at the Castle in 2022. Currently undefeated with a professional boxing record of 10-0 and noted for his victory over Jake Paul, Tommy’s crossover into WWE could ignite intriguing rivalries, especially given Logan Paul’s status as a current WWE Star and former United States Champion. A tag team showdown featuring the Fury brothers against the Paul brothers could draw mainstream attention for WWE.
Oba Femi’s Recent NXT Absence Sparks Speculation
NXT star and former North American Champion Oba Femi has not been seen at recent NXT tapings or television broadcasts, fueling rumors about his status within the company. Reports from Fightful Select indicate Femi has been absent since his defeat to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Femi, who debuted on NXT television in April 2023, quickly rose through the ranks by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. His 272-day title reign was cut short by D’Angelo, followed by a rematch loss at Halloween Havoc.
While his absence could be linked to an injury or a planned main roster call-up, insiders suggest it might simply be a strategic break to allow Femi’s recent setbacks to settle. When he returns, many expect him to position himself as a major contender for the NXT Championship, possibly challenging current champion Trick Williams.
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