WWE Updates: Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future, NXT’s Oba Femi Absent
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report | November 27, 2024
WWE fans received several intriguing updates recently, including insights from Roman Reigns about WrestleMania 40, boxer Tommy Fury hinting at a possible pro wrestling career with WWE, and speculation about the absence of former NXT North American Champion Oba Femi. Here’s a detailed look into the latest happenings in the WWE Universe.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Main Event: The Rock, Cody Rhodes & Future Possibilities
During an engaging interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, Roman Reigns opened up about the high-profile WrestleMania 40 main event involving himself, Cody Rhodes, and The Rock.
When asked if he was disappointed to face Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock at the event, Reigns expressed that it did not matter to him who the opponent was, as long as he maintained his place 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, 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. They are trying to take us off the pinnacle right now, so it was the same task in hand for me,” said Reigns.
The circumstances shifted dramatically after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble match, initially stating he wouldn’t challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship, which seemingly opened the door for a marquee clash with The Rock. However, fan backlash led Rhodes to reverse course, while The Rock pivoted to a heel persona as “The Final Boss,” aligning with Reigns. This alliance culminated in The Rock and Reigns defeating Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes capturing the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. When probed about a potential future one-on-one match against The Rock, Reigns acknowledged its possibility should fan demand be strong enough:
"I think our fanbase and the company’s proven that if our fans are loud enough and passionate enough about something, we’re a company who—we’re not being dictated to. We have a vision for where we’re trying to go, but we know who the consumers are. We know who’s paying their hard-earned money, and we want to satisfy those people."
Reigns added:
"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 unexpected return to WWE programming last month at Bad Blood but has since remained absent, leaving fans wondering if he will re-emerge soon. With the upcoming WarGames match at Survivor Series featuring the old and new versions of The Bloodline, speculation grows that The Rock could make another surprise appearance, potentially setting up an eventual showdown with his cousin, Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at Exploring WWE Opportunities
British professional boxer Tommy Fury, brother of former world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, seems intrigued by the world of professional wrestling. On Sunday, Fury shared a YouTube video from backstage at a recent WWE UK tour event, where he mingled with Superstars including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
In the video, Fury commented on the experience and his potential future with WWE:
"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."
Tommy Fury, currently undefeated in his professional boxing career with a notable victory over Jake Paul, hinted that a move into WWE could be on the horizon. Given his connections to the Paul family, and WWE Superstar Logan Paul’s presence in the company, a potential boxing vs. wrestling storyline involving the Fury and Paul brothers could attract mainstream attention.
His older brother Tyson Fury previously had a brief WWE stint, including a one-off match at Crown Jewel 2019 and a memorable appearance at WWE Clash at the Castle 2022. —
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Raises Questions
Oba Femi, the former NXT North American Champion, has reportedly been absent from NXT tapings since his October 27 loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc, according to Fightful Select. No official explanation has been provided for his absence.
Since debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi quickly climbed the ranks by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship with a memorable cash-in on Dragon Lee. Femi’s title reign lasted a record 272 days until he unexpectedly dropped the title to D’Angelo last month, followed by a loss in their rematch at Halloween Havoc.
It’s unclear whether Femi’s time off is due to injury, a possible main roster promotion, or a strategic creative decision to let the impact of his recent losses settle. Upon returning, he remains a strong candidate to challenge for the NXT Championship and restore his momentum.
Looking Ahead in WWE
- The brewing possibility of Roman Reigns vs. The Rock remains an enticing storyline that WWE fans hope will materialize.
- Tommy Fury’s hinted interest in joining WWE ranks could introduce a fresh dynamic blending boxing and pro wrestling.
- Oba Femi’s absence from NXT leaves fans eager to see when and how the promising talent will return.
Stay tuned for further updates on these developing WWE stories as the company continues to evolve its roster and storylines heading into 2025.