Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40, Teases Potential Rock Match; Tommy Fury Shows WWE Interest; Oba Femi Faces NXT Absence
In the latest updates from the WWE universe, Roman Reigns has shared his thoughts on his WrestleMania 40 encounters and the possibility of a future showdown with The Rock. Meanwhile, boxer Tommy Fury hints at a potential wrestling career with WWE, and rising star Oba Femi has been notably absent from recent NXT tapings, sparking rumors about his status.
Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Future Prospects
During a recent interview on the SI Media podcast hosted by Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, Roman Reigns opened up about his experience as the main event star of WrestleMania 40 and his views on facing Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock.
When asked whether he was disappointed that Cody Rhodes, not The Rock, stood opposite him at WrestleMania, Reigns was unfazed. He emphasized that being the center of attention was what mattered most.
“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 didn’t matter who it is,” Reigns revealed. “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.”
The storyline leading up to WrestleMania 40 saw some dramatic shifts. Following Rhodes’ victory in the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble, he initially chose not to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship, hinting The Rock as the likely opponent. However, after fan backlash, Rhodes reversed his decision, which shifted The Rock into a heel persona as “The Final Boss,” aligning with Reigns. The Rock and Roman teamed to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins in the Night 1 main event, with Rhodes capturing the WWE Championship from Reigns on Night 2. When asked about the potential for a Rock vs. Reigns match in the future, Reigns suggested that fan interest would be the deciding factor.
“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… If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen,” added Reigns.
The Rock made a surprise return to WWE programming last month at the Bad Blood event but has remained absent since, leaving the door open for future storylines. With high-profile matches upcoming, including a WarGames contest involving different Bloodline factions at Survivor Series, fans may see The Rock reemerge to set the stage for an eventual clash with his cousin.
Tommy Fury Explores Possibility of WWE Career
Tommy Fury, the undefeated professional boxer and younger brother of former heavyweight champ Tyson Fury, showed interest in pro wrestling this week during a backstage visit to WWE’s UK tour. Posting on YouTube, he expressed enthusiasm after interacting with several WWE superstars including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
“So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete. All the wrestlers showing love… 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,” Fury said.
Given Tyson Fury’s previous WWE involvement—most notably his match at Crown Jewel 2019 and his unexpected intervention at Clash at the Castle 2022—Tommy’s potential wrestling career is generating buzz. With Tommy’s ties to the Paul family after his boxing victory over Jake Paul, a crossover wrestling feud with Logan Paul, a current WWE Superstar, could captivate wider audiences. WWE appears likely to keep options open regarding Tommy Fury’s future role.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Raises Questions
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has reportedly not been seen at NXT tapings since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. According to Fightful Select, details regarding his whereabouts or status remain unclear.
Femi quickly established himself as a force in NXT after debuting on televised programming in April 2023, capturing the NXT Breakout Tournament and winning the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. His title reign lasted an impressive 272 days—the longest in the title’s history—before losing the championship to D’Angelo last month. A rematch at Halloween Havoc also ended in defeat.
His recent absence might indicate a period of rest or injury recovery, a transition toward the main roster, or simply a strategic move by NXT officials to allow the heat from recent losses to cool off. When Femi returns, many expect him to be a top contender for the NXT Championship, potentially positioned as a future titleholder.
As WWE continues to mix veteran stars, rising talents, and crossover athletes, these storylines and career developments highlight the dynamic nature of the wrestling landscape and the company’s ongoing efforts to captivate audiences worldwide.