Reigns Reflects on The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Considers WWE Future; Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Sparks Rumors
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report – November 27, 2024
In recent interviews and events shaking up the WWE Universe, several key figures have been opening up about the state of wrestling storylines and their personal futures. From Roman Reigns commenting on his WrestleMania 40 experiences with The Rock and Cody Rhodes, to boxing star Tommy Fury hinting at a possible transition into WWE, and news surrounding NXT’s Oba Femi’s sudden absence, here is the latest wrestling news.
Roman Reigns Opens Up on WrestleMania 40, Cody Rhodes, and Potential Rock Match
Roman Reigns, known as “The Tribal Chief,” gave insight into his mindset leading up to and following WrestleMania 40 during an appearance on the SI Media podcast with Jimmy Traina. The conversation touched on the high-stakes shifts with his originally anticipated WrestleMania opponent.
Initially, it seemed the main event would pit Reigns against The Rock, a long-anticipated encounter between WWE cousins, but due to some storyline changes and fan reaction, Cody Rhodes ended up taking that spot on Night 1. Reigns stated he wasn’t concerned about who he faced as long as he remained 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… They are trying to stop history from happening… It was the same task in hand for me.”
Following Rhodes’ surprise win in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble, he initially declined a championship challenge to Reigns for WrestleMania 40, paving the way for The Rock to enter the picture. However, after negative fan feedback to this booking, Rhodes reversed course days later, leading to The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss.” This eventually culminated in The Rock and Reigns teaming up to face Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes emerging victorious over Reigns for the WWE Championship on Night 2. When asked about the possibility of a future match against The Rock, Reigns suggested that if fans vocally demand it, WWE would not be hesitant to make it happen:
“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 Bad Blood last month but has yet to clarify his plans or appear again since. With the upcoming WarGames match between new and original incarnations of The Bloodline at Survivor Series, fans may anticipate The Rock’s next potential role as storylines build toward a climactic confrontation with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Teases Possible WWE Career
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, has recently revealed interest in exploring professional wrestling. Posting backstage footage from WWE’s recent UK tour on YouTube, Fury expressed gratitude toward WWE stars and performers, including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther, hinting at a potential future in the squared circle:
“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, who currently holds an undefeated 10-0 boxing record and notably defeated Jake Paul, shares close ties with the Paul family—Logan Paul is an active WWE Superstar. Such connections could pave the way for compelling storylines, perhaps including a Paul brothers vs. Fury brothers feud that might also draw interest beyond typical wrestling fans.
His brother Tyson’s involvement with WWE has been limited but impactful, including a match victory over Braun Strowman by count-out at Crown Jewel 2019 and his memorable intervention at WWE Clash at the Castle 2022. —
Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Fuels Speculation
Former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has not been spotted backstage or on NXT television for over a month following his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Sources from Fightful Select indicate no current signs of Femi attending recent tapings, leaving fans and insiders to speculate on his status.
After his NXT debut in April 2023, Femi quickly rose through the ranks, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. His 272-day title reign ended unexpectedly with his defeat by D’Angelo, followed shortly by a rematch loss.
Femi’s absence could be strategic—whether taking time off to recover from injury, prepare for a WWE main roster call-up, or allowing heat from his recent losses to dissipate on TV. His proven skills and star power suggest a potential return to challenge for the NXT Championship, possibly positioning him as a rival to current champion Trick Williams.
What’s Next for WWE Fans?
As WWE continues to balance legacy stars, emerging talents, and crossover celebrities, wrestling enthusiasts can expect evolving storylines and surprises on multiple fronts. From the high-profile saga between Reigns, The Rock, and Rhodes, to the intriguing possibility of Tommy Fury entering WWE, and careful management of key NXT figures like Oba Femi, the wrestling world remains dynamic and unpredictable.
For the latest updates, stay tuned to Bleacher Report and catch the newest episode of Ring Rust Radio for lively discussions on all things wrestling.
Photo Caption:
The Rock and Roman Reigns after their WrestleMania 40 victory against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at Lincoln Financial Field on April 6, 2024, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by WWE/Getty Images)
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