Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence
WWE fans have plenty to buzz about as recent developments involving some of the industry’s top stars unfold. From Roman Reigns discussing his WrestleMania 40 opponents and potential future battles, to boxing sensation Tommy Fury hinting at a WWE career, and NXT’s Oba Femi’s mysterious absence from programming, here’s the latest from the WWE Universe.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Possible Match With The Rock
During a recent appearance on the SI Media podcast, Roman Reigns shared his thoughts on his WrestleMania 40 experiences, particularly regarding the switch from a possible match against The Rock to facing Cody Rhodes. Reigns spoke with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina about the main event booking that appeared to oscillate between Rhodes and The Rock.
Reigns expressed that the identity of his opponent did not matter as much as being featured 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. It’s where, we just need to get there and defend this thing. It didn’t matter who it is," Reigns said, emphasizing his mindset to defend his championship regardless of the challenger.
The emotion around WrestleMania 40 was complicated by storyline shifts after Rhodes won the 2024 Royal Rumble but initially declined to challenge Reigns, leading to rumors of The Rock stepping in. However, fan backlash resulted in Rhodes reversing course, and The Rock turning heel by becoming "The Final Boss" and aligning with Reigns. The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins in the Night 1 main event, while Rhodes claimed the WWE Championship from Reigns on Night 2. Looking ahead, Reigns did not rule out a future match with The Rock, contingent on fan interest. “I think our fanbase and the company’s proven that if our fans are loud enough and passionate enough about something, we’re a company who—we’re not being dictated to. We have a vision for where we’re trying to go, but we know who the consumers are. We know who’s paying their hard-earned money, and we want to satisfy those people,” he remarked. Reigns added, “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 appearance last month at WWE’s Bad Blood event but has not revealed his intentions since, leaving speculation open for his involvement in upcoming clashes, including the WarGames match at Survivor Series involving The Bloodline factions.
Tommy Fury Hints at Potential WWE Career Following Backstage Visit
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, recently teased a possible pro wrestling future with WWE. In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury showed footage of himself backstage during WWE’s recent UK tour, interacting with several WWE Superstars such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
Fury expressed appreciation to WWE and hinted at ambitions to one day compete inside the ring. “Thank you to the 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,” he said.
Tommy Fury is undefeated in his professional boxing career at 10-0 and holds the distinction of being the only boxer to defeat Jake Paul. With his family’s past involvement with WWE — Tyson Fury had a memorable match defeating Braun Strowman at Crown Jewel 2019 — Tommy could be positioned as an intriguing addition to WWE storylines, especially alongside or in opposition to the Paul brothers, Logan and Jake, who have been active in WWE programming.
Oba Femi’s Absence From NXT Raises Questions
NXT watcher and Fightful Select report that Oba Femi, the former North American Champion, has been noticeably absent from NXT tapings and episodes for roughly a month following his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. The reason for Femi’s absence remains unclear. It could be a strategic move to allow time to reset following two consecutive defeats, or it might signal a forthcoming main roster call-up or injury recovery. After debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi enjoyed a dominant run, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship with a record-setting 272-day reign before dropping the title to D’Angelo last month.
If and when Oba Femi returns, expectations are high for him to contend for the NXT Championship, potentially challenging current titleholder Trick Williams.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for more WWE news and updates as the wrestling landscape continues to evolve.