Roman Reigns Talks The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Opportunity; Oba Femi’s Status in NXT Sparks Rumors
By Mike Chiari | Bleacher Report | November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates from the WWE Universe, including recent interviews, backstage developments, and intriguing rumors surrounding some of wrestling’s top personalities.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Future Matches
In a revealing interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE’s "Tribal Chief," Roman Reigns, opened up about his experience heading into WrestleMania 40. The event featured high-profile matches involving Cody Rhodes and The Rock, with some uncertainty over who Reigns would ultimately face.
When asked if he was disappointed to face Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock, Reigns expressed that his priority was simply being in the main event spotlight, regardless of the opponent:
“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. They are trying to stop history from happening.”
The buildup to WrestleMania 40 saw Rhodes winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but initially declining to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship, seemingly paving the way for The Rock to reclaim the spotlight. However, fan reaction shifted the plan, culminating in The Rock turning heel as "The Final Boss" and joining forces with Reigns. Together, they defeated Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, only for Rhodes to capture the WWE title from Reigns in the main event of Night 2. Regarding the much-anticipated yet unrealized Reigns vs. The Rock match, Reigns suggested a future bout remains possible if the fans demand it loudly enough:
“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 last month at Bad Blood but has not yet articulated his specific plans within WWE programming. With the recent WarGames matches at Survivor Series involving different Bloodline factions, some speculate The Rock could re-emerge, setting the stage for a showdown with his cousin, Reigns.
Boxer Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Interest Following UK Tour
Tommy Fury, younger brother of renowned heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, hinted at exploring the idea of joining WWE after recently attending a WWE event during the promotion’s UK tour. In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury shared candid moments backstage with WWE Superstars, including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther:
"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 Fury has carved out his own undefeated boxing career, notably securing a victory over Jake Paul. His relationship with the Paul family and connection to WWE via his brother Tyson—who had a notable win over Braun Strowman at Crown Jewel 2019 and famously interfered in the Money in the Bank cash-in attempt at Clash at the Castle 2022—makes Tommy a fascinating prospect for WWE.
Fans and insiders alike speculate that a potential feud or tag team featuring the Fury brothers versus the Paul brothers could attract significant mainstream interest, making WWE’s doors potentially open for Tommy Fury down the road.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Sparks Speculation
NXT star and former North American Champion Oba Femi has reportedly not been seen at any NXT events or tapings since late October, following his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. According to Fightful Select, no word has surfaced regarding Femi’s backstage presence or future on NXT television.
After a promising start to his WWE career—winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and holding the North American Championship for a record-setting 272 days—Femi’s recent back-to-back losses to D’Angelo and subsequent television absence have led to considerable speculation. Possible reasons include:
- Time off to recover from an injury
- A strategic break by NXT creative as Femi regroups after title losses
- Potential preparations for a main roster call-up
Femi’s collegiate athletic background as a University of Alabama shot put star and his strong in-ring presence make him a compelling candidate for future NXT Championship runs, potentially setting up matches with the current titleholder Trick Williams.
Stay Tuned for More WWE News and Insights
For the latest on WWE’s evolving storylines and backstage updates, Bleacher Report will continue to monitor and report on all developments.
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Photo Credit: WWE/Getty Images — The Rock and Roman Reigns after their victory against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.