Roman Reigns Talks The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Spot; NXT Rumors Surround Oba Femi’s Absence
By Mike Chiari — November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates from the WWE Universe, featuring insights from Roman Reigns on high-profile rivalries, boxer Tommy Fury’s peek into professional wrestling, and intriguing news about NXT star Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents: The Rock vs. Cody Rhodes
At the recent SI Media podcast hosted by Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE’s "Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns opened up about his WrestleMania 40 main event experience, where he ultimately faced off against Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock.
When asked if he was disappointed not to have a WrestleMania showdown against The Rock, Reigns was emphatic that the opponent did not matter to him—only his place in the main event.
"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 about defending this thing," Reigns explained.
The back story adds context: Cody Rhodes won the men’s Royal Rumble in 2024 but initially declined to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania, creating speculation that The Rock would step in. Negative fan reaction prompted Rhodes to reconsider, ultimately leading to The Rock turning heel as "The Final Boss" and teaming with Reigns in a compelling Night 1 main event victory over Rhodes and Seth Rollins. Rhodes, however, reclaimed the WWE title on Night 2. With the long-anticipated Reigns vs. The Rock match on hold, Traina asked if a future bout could still happen. Reigns suggested it depends on fan and company demand:
"If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen."
The Rock, who made a surprise WWE appearance last month at Bad Blood, has yet to clarify his future plans. With both versions of The Bloodline engaged in a WarGames match at Survivor Series, speculation is mounting on whether The Rock may return to build towards a marquee encounter with his cousin.
Tommy Fury Reveals Interest in WWE Career
British boxer Tommy Fury, brother of heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury, has hinted at a possible transition into professional wrestling. Recently backstage during WWE’s UK tour, Fury posted a YouTube video expressing admiration for WWE talent and openness to involvement.
"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 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.
Tommy Fury, 25, is an undefeated professional boxer and notably the only fighter to knock out Jake Paul. Given the historical WWE involvement of his brother Tyson—who had a win at Crown Jewel 2019 and famously knocked out Austin Theory in 2022—Tommy’s crossover appeal could attract interest. His relationship with the Paul family, especially Logan Paul’s WWE presence, raises potential for engaging storylines or matches involving the two sports families.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Raises Questions
NXT fans have noticed the absence of former North American Champion Oba Femi from WWE’s developmental brand television and tapings over the last month. According to Fightful Select, Femi has not been backstage since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at the Halloween Havoc event on October 27. The details behind his absence remain unclear. Femi, who debuted on NXT in April 2023, quickly established himself by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship with an impressive 272-day reign. His recent tagged losses to D’Angelo marked the first televised defeats of his WWE career.
Industry insiders speculate that Femi’s break could be a strategic move by NXT creative to allow him time to regroup after setbacks. Alternatively, it might hint at a potential main roster call-up or a period of recuperation from injury. When Femi returns, many expect him to emerge as a serious contender for the NXT Championship.
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