WWE Updates: Roman Reigns on The Rock & Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE, and NXT’s Oba Femi Absence
Bleacher Report is back with the latest WWE news, covering Roman Reigns’ reflections on WrestleMania 40, boxer Tommy Fury’s interest in WWE, and rumors surrounding NXT’s former North American Champion Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Opens Up About WrestleMania 40 Opponents and A Future Match With The Rock
Roman Reigns recently spoke candidly about the main event scene at WrestleMania 40 in an interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina. Reigns, known as The Original Tribal Chief, addressed the shifting plans that saw him ultimately face Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock as initially speculated.
When asked if he was disappointed not to face The Rock, Reigns made it clear that competing in the main event was what truly mattered:
"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."
The storyline initially hinted that Cody Rhodes would forgo challenging Reigns at WrestleMania after winning the 2024 Royal Rumble, with The Rock positioned as the likely contender instead. However, fan backlash led to a last-minute reversal, and The Rock turned heel—becoming “The Final Boss”—and allied with Reigns. The duo defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, before Rhodes captured the WWE Championship from Reigns on Night 2. Looking ahead, Reigns acknowledged the possibility of a future match against The Rock if fans rally behind the idea:
"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 an unannounced return to WWE programming at Bad Blood last month but has yet to clearly state his intentions or appear elsewhere. With a major WarGames match between new and original Bloodline factions scheduled for Survivor Series, speculation is mounting that The Rock might re-emerge to build towards a family showdown with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at Wrestling Career With WWE
Boxing standout Tommy Fury teased the idea of crossing over into WWE this week after being seen backstage at a WWE event during their UK tour. On his YouTube channel, Fury expressed enthusiasm about the wrestling world and his potential future within the company:
"So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love. Big up to Randy Orton. Absolutely amazing guy. Big up to Cody Rhodes, all of them, Gunther, the lot of them. 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."
At 25, Tommy is the younger brother of heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, who briefly dabbled in WWE before focusing on boxing. Tommy boasts an undefeated 10-0 boxing record and holds the distinction of being the only fighter to defeat Jake Paul in the ring.
Given his family ties and connection to the Paul brothers—Logan Paul being a WWE Superstar—Tommy Fury could be a prime candidate to enter WWE storylines, possibly setting up high-profile rivalries or tag matches that could extend WWE’s mainstream appeal.
Oba Femi’s Unexpected Absence From NXT Programming
Former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi has been notably absent from NXT television and tapings for over a month, according to Fightful Select. Femi was last seen on the October 27 Halloween Havoc episode, where he lost a title rematch to Tony D’Angelo, ending his record-setting 272-day championship reign.
While the reasons for his absence remain unclear, possibilities include a creative decision to allow time to reset after back-to-back losses, potential injury, or preparation for a main roster call-up. Femi rose quickly upon his April 2023 debut, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and claiming the North American title from Dragon Lee.
Should he return, many insiders expect Femi to be positioned as a strong contender for the NXT Championship and continue his ascent in WWE.
As WWE evolves through fresh storylines and emerging stars, these developments offer exciting glimpses into the future of the company’s landscape. Stay tuned for more updates as events unfold in WWE and NXT.
Reporting by Mike Chiari for Bleacher Report