Roman Reigns Talks The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyeing WWE, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence
By Mike Chiari – Bleacher Report, November 27, 2024
Roman Reigns recently opened up about key moments and potential future matchups in WWE during an interview on the Sports Illustrated podcast. Meanwhile, boxer Tommy Fury hinted at a WWE future, and former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has reportedly been absent from the brand’s programming, stirring backstage rumors.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40, The Rock, and Cody Rhodes
On the SI Media podcast with Jimmy Traina, Roman Reigns shared his perspective on the main event booking shifts leading up to WrestleMania 40 and his interactions with two major WWE figures: The Rock and Cody Rhodes.
When asked about facing Rhodes instead of The Rock, Reigns showed no disappointment about the change, emphasizing that being in the main event spotlight was what mattered most. “I was the main event. I’m the guy everyone wanted to dance with,” Reigns said. “We just need to get there and defend this thing. It didn’t matter who it was. They are trying to stop history from happening… It was the same task in hand for me.”
Initially, after Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, it appeared he wouldn’t challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 40. This led to speculation The Rock would fill that spot. However, fan backlash prompted a reversal, resulting in The Rock turning heel as “The Final Boss” and aligning with Reigns. The duo teamed up on Night 1 at WrestleMania 40 to defeat Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins, but Rhodes captured the WWE title from Reigns in the Night 2 main event.
Regarding the long-anticipated showdown with The Rock that never materialized at WrestleMania 40, Reigns did not rule out the possibility of the match happening in the future. He stressed the fans’ influence: “If the people want it and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen.”
The Rock made an unexpected return at the recent Bad Blood event but has yet to clarify his intentions or appear since. With new chapters unfolding in WWE’s Bloodline storyline—culminating in a WarGames match at Survivor Series—there is speculation The Rock might reemerge soon to escalate family tensions and possibly renew his rivalry with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Teases Potential WWE Career
In a surprising development, professional boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, hinted at a possible WWE future. In a YouTube video posted after a WWE UK tour event, Fury praised WWE talents including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther while expressing gratitude to the company for its hospitality.
Fury said, “I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day. Who knows?” With a flawless 10-0 boxing record and distinction as the only boxer to defeat Jake Paul, Fury’s move to WWE could be significant. His friendship with the Paul family offers a compelling storyline foundation, potentially setting up a feud or even a tag team match involving the Fury and Paul brothers.
His brother Tyson has a history with WWE, notably defeating Braun Strowman by count-out in Crown Jewel 2019 and famously knocking out Austin Theory at Clash at the Castle 2022, stopping a Money in the Bank cash-in. Tommy Fury joining WWE would continue the family’s ongoing connection to pro wrestling.
Oba Femi Absent from NXT Shows, Future Status Uncertain
Former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has reportedly not been involved in recent NXT tapings, sparking speculation about his status. Fightful Select reported no sign of Femi backstage since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. The dominant competitor made a strong impact since debuting in April 2023 — winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and holding the North American title for a record-setting 272 days before dropping it to D’Angelo. He also lost a rematch at Halloween Havoc.
His absence could indicate a variety of scenarios: a brief break to recalibrate after consecutive losses, preparation for promotion to WWE’s main roster, or time off due to injury. Alternatively, NXT decision-makers might be keeping Femi off television to allow storylines to reset.
Whenever he returns, Femi is viewed as a prime contender to challenge for the NXT Championship, with potential to dethrone current champion Trick Williams.
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