Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Matchups, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future, and NXT Star Oba Femi’s Recent Absence
In recent developments from the WWE Universe, several intriguing stories have emerged regarding prominent superstars and prospects alike. Roman Reigns shared his candid thoughts about his WrestleMania 40 matches and potential future clashes, while professional boxer Tommy Fury hinted at a possible transition into WWE. Meanwhile, NXT’s Oba Femi has reportedly been absent from recent programming, stirring speculation among fans and insiders.
Roman Reigns Comments on The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and WrestleMania 40
On the SI Media podcast hosted by Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE’s “Tribal Chief” Roman Reigns opened up about the dynamics behind WrestleMania 40’s main event, which saw him face Cody Rhodes instead of the originally anticipated match against The Rock. Addressing whether he was disappointed not to face The Rock, Reigns expressed indifference, emphasizing the importance of being in the WrestleMania main event.
Reigns remarked, “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, trying to take us off the pinnacle right now, so it was the same task in hand for me.”
After Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, initial reports suggested he would not challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40, leading to fans expecting The Rock to step into the role. However, following a backlash from WWE’s fanbase, Rhodes reversed his stance, prompting The Rock to turn heel as “The Final Boss” and align with Reigns. On Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, The Rock and Reigns teamed to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins, while Rhodes recaptured the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. When asked about the possibility of a future WWE Championship match with The Rock, Reigns replied that such a match could happen if the fans demonstrate enough enthusiasm. He explained, “If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen.”
The Rock’s recent unannounced WWE return at the Bad Blood event last month teased future storylines, although no clear direction was revealed. With the Bloodline factions battling in a WarGames match at Survivor Series, there exists an opportune moment for The Rock to make another impactful return and possibly set the stage for a family showdown with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Teases Potential WWE Career
Tommy Fury, the undefeated professional boxer and younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, recently indicated an interest in stepping into the wrestling ring with WWE. Posting a YouTube video during WWE’s recent UK tour, Fury shared backstage experiences with WWE Superstar favorites and expressed excitement about a potential future in professional wrestling.
In the video, Fury said, “So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love… I look forward to possibly climbing through them ropes one day. Who knows? But it’s been a great night.”
Tommy’s brother Tyson previously participated in a WWE match at Crown Jewel 2019 and remains connected to the company through notable appearances, including intervening in a Money in the Bank cash-in at Clash at the Castle 2022. Given Tommy Fury’s undefeated boxing record and existing ties with the Paul family—most notably as the only boxer to defeat Jake Paul—his WWE debut could generate significant mainstream interest. This creates intriguing possibilities, such as a potential feud or tag team involving the Fury and Paul brothers, tapping into a wide audience base.
NXT Star Oba Femi Absent Following Recent Losses
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion and breakout star, has reportedly been absent from WWE’s NXT tapings and television since late October. According to reports from Fightful Select, Femi has not been seen backstage following his losses to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. Femi’s absence comes after a dominant run that included winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and holding the North American Championship for a record 272 days. His unexpected loss to D’Angelo ended his reign, followed by a rematch defeat at Halloween Havoc.
While the reasons for Femi’s recent lack of appearances remain unclear, speculation ranges from a possible injury to WWE’s creative decision to remove him from television for a period of recalibration. Fans and insiders suggest that his return could position him as a strong contender for the NXT Championship, potentially setting up a high-profile rivalry with current titleholder Trick Williams.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report and wrestling news outlets for updates on these stories, including potential developments around WWE’s main event scene, Tommy Fury’s ambitions, and Oba Femi’s future in NXT.