WWE Update: Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury’s WWE Interest, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report – November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report brings you the latest news from the WWE universe, including insights from Roman Reigns about his WrestleMania 40 opponents, boxing star Tommy Fury’s potential WWE aspirations, and rumors surrounding the NXT roster and former North American champion Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Main Event and The Rock vs. Cody Rhodes Decisions
During a recent interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE superstar Roman Reigns opened up about his WrestleMania 40 storyline, addressing the back-and-forth over whether he would face his cousin The Rock or Cody Rhodes in the marquee match.
Reigns explained that it did not matter to him whom he faced, as his focus stayed on being in the main event and defending his title:
“It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with… It was the same task in hand for me.”
Originally, after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, he declared that he would not challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania. Instead, it seemed The Rock would take that spot. However, after fan backlash, Rhodes reversed course, leading to a storyline twist where The Rock turned heel—becoming "The Final Boss"—and aligned with Reigns. On Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, Reigns and The Rock defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins. The following night, Rhodes reclaimed the WWE Championship by defeating Roman Reigns.
When asked about the possibility of a Reigns vs. The Rock singles match in the future, Reigns said it could happen if fan demand remains strong:
“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 WWE’s Bad Blood event last month, although he has yet to clarify his next in-ring intentions. With the ongoing storyline involving The Bloodline factions, many speculate The Rock could reemerge to build toward a high-profile confrontation with Roman Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at Potential WWE Career
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight champ Tyson Fury, teased the possibility of entering the WWE world this week. Posting a YouTube video documenting his time backstage during WWE’s recent UK tour, Fury praised WWE superstars and hinted at a future in professional wrestling:
“Thank you to the WWE for showing us such appreciation. And I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows?”
At 25 years old and undefeated in his boxing career, Fury’s potential crossover to WWE has drawn considerable interest. His family connection further intrigues fans, as Tyson Fury had a one-off WWE match in 2019 and has remained involved vocally in WWE storylines, notably disrupting Austin Theory’s Money in the Bank cash-in attempt at Clash at the Castle in 2022. Given Tommy Fury’s links to the Paul brothers—Jake and Logan Paul—who have both been involved in WWE, the promotion could explore compelling storylines featuring the Fury and Paul families, possibly staging tag team or rivalry matches that attract mainstream attention.
Oba Femi’s Extended Absence from NXT Programming
NXT standout Oba Femi has been notably absent from recent NXT tapings since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27, 2024, according to reports from Fightful Select.
The former North American champion debuted on NXT television in April 2023 and quickly rose through the ranks by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. Femi held the title for a record-setting 272 days until he dropped the belt to D’Angelo last month. A rematch loss followed at Halloween Havoc.
The reason for Femi’s recent absence is unclear. It could be a period for rest and recovery, a time to reset character direction, or potentially preparation for a call-up to WWE’s main roster. Fans and insiders speculate that when he returns, Femi could be positioned for a strong push toward the NXT Championship.
Stay tuned for more updates from WWE as storylines evolve and new talents emerge in the wrestling world.