WWE Updates: Roman Reigns on The Rock & Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Career, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report | November 27, 2024
The WWE Universe has plenty to discuss this week, with Roman Reigns sharing his thoughts on high-profile WrestleMania 40 opponents, boxing star Tommy Fury hinting at a future in WWE, and NXT’s Oba Femi noticeably absent from recent programming. Here’s the latest from the world of professional wrestling:
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Main Event and Future Potential Rock Match
Roman Reigns, the WWE’s reigning “Original Tribal Chief,” spoke candidly about his WrestleMania 40 experience during a recent appearance on the SI Media podcast with Jimmy Traina. When asked if he was disappointed to face Cody Rhodes instead of his cousin The Rock in the main event, Reigns made it clear that being in the spotlight was his priority.
"It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with… It didn’t matter who it is. 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 drama leading to WrestleMania 40 saw Rhodes winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble and initially stating he would not challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship. This opened speculation that The Rock would step into the title match. However, fan backlash caused a switch, resulting in The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss” and teaming with Reigns to defeat Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania. On Night 2, Rhodes defeated Reigns to capture the WWE title.
On the potential for a future blockbuster showdown between Reigns and The Rock, the “Tribal Chief” hinted at possibilities but emphasized 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."
The Rock, who made an unannounced return at the Bad Blood event last month, has not been seen on WWE programming since. With the Bloodline factions scheduled for a WarGames match at Survivor Series this weekend, many wonder if The Rock might reappear to build toward that eventual clash.
Tommy Fury Teases WWE Aspirations After UK Tour Backstage Visit
Boxing sensation Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has publicly expressed interest in exploring a professional wrestling career with WWE. Sharing a video on YouTube from backstage at a recent WWE UK tour stop, Fury spoke highly of his interactions with top WWE talent such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
"Thank you to the WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows?"
Tommy Fury is undefeated in his professional boxing career and notably the only boxer to have defeated Jake Paul. His connections and popularity could make him an appealing figure for WWE, particularly as a potential opponent or ally to Logan Paul, who currently competes as a WWE Superstar.
With his brother Tyson having wrestled once for WWE at Crown Jewel 2019 and recently causing a viral incident by knocking out Austin Theory at Clash at the Castle 2022, the Fury family’s ties to WWE could deepen if Tommy decides to join the squared circle.
Oba Femi Missing from NXT After Title Defeats
On the NXT front, former North American Champion Oba Femi has been notably absent from backstage and tapings since his October 27 loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc. Fightful Select reports no signs of Femi at recent NXT events, with the reasons unclear.
After a strong televised debut in April 2023, Femi built momentum by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. His 272-day title reign marked a record, which ended with a surprise defeat to D’Angelo. A subsequent rematch also resulted in loss for Femi.
His current absence could be a sign of injury, a planned break to refresh his storyline, or preparations for a possible main roster promotion. When he returns, Femi is considered a strong contender for the NXT Championship and could play a crucial role in upcoming title feuds, possibly targeting NXT Champion Trick Williams.
Stay tuned for more updates as WWE continues to evolve its storylines and expands its roster with new and exciting talents.
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