Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock, Cody Rhodes, WrestleMania 40; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future; NXT’s Oba Femi MIA
In the latest WWE Universe updates, Roman Reigns shares his thoughts on recent WrestleMania 40 headliners The Rock and Cody Rhodes, while boxer Tommy Fury hints at a possible career in WWE. Meanwhile, NXT’s former North American Champion Oba Femi has been notably absent from recent tapings, sparking speculation about his status.
Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and The Rock Match Prospects
Roman Reigns appeared on the Sports Illustrated Media podcast with host Jimmy Traina, providing candid insights into the lead-up to WrestleMania 40 and his involvement in the show’s biggest matches. Reigns addressed the behind-the-scenes uncertainty over whether he would face The Rock or Cody Rhodes in the main event, stating that the opponent did not affect his focus or excitement:
"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. 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 around WrestleMania 40 saw Rhodes win the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble but initially decline to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship. This led to speculation The Rock would be Reigns’ opponent instead, until fan backlash prompted a reversal, culminating in The Rock turning heel to team with Reigns. On Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, Reigns and The Rock defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins, only for Rhodes to capture the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. When asked about the possibility of a future one-on-one match against The Rock, Reigns expressed openness, emphasizing the power of fan demand:
"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 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 unannounced return last month at WWE’s Bad Blood event but has yet to clarify his long-term plans. With upcoming high-stakes matches involving The Bloodline at Survivor Series, many speculate a Rock resurgence could be on the horizon.
Tommy Fury Explores Possible WWE Future
On the pro wrestling front, British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight champ Tyson Fury, recently shared his enthusiasm for WWE after touring with the company during their UK shows. In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury praised WWE stars such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, while hinting at aspirations to wrestle:
"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."
Tommy Fury boasts an undefeated professional boxing record and notably handed Jake Paul his only professional loss. Given his family’s ties to WWE and his connection to the Paul brothers, Fury could represent a major crossover attraction, possibly setting up high-profile matches against Logan Paul and others in WWE’s growing celebrity wrestling niche.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Raises Questions
In NXT, former North American Champion Oba Femi has not appeared at tapings since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27, according to Fightful Select reports. The specifics of his absence remain unclear—it may be a strategic break following two consecutive losses or potentially injury-related.
Femi rose rapidly after debuting on television in April 2023, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. His 272-day title reign marked a record length for the championship, which ended with D’Angelo’s victory. Following a rematch loss at Halloween Havoc, Femi has yet to return to NXT programming.
Fans and insiders speculate whether Femi’s time off could signal a main roster call-up or a refreshed character direction in NXT. When he returns, many expect him to be positioned as a strong contender for the NXT Championship.
As the WWE landscape continues to evolve, fans eagerly await developments with top stars like Roman Reigns, The Rock, and promising new entrants like Tommy Fury, while NXT remains a fertile ground for rising talent such as Oba Femi. Stay tuned for further updates from the WWE Universe.