Latest from WWE Universe: Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence
In recent developments within the WWE landscape, several noteworthy updates have emerged concerning top superstars and rising talents. Roman Reigns shared candid thoughts on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, boxing star Tommy Fury hinted at a potential wrestling future, and NXT’s Oba Femi appears to have vanished from recent programming. Here’s a detailed look at these stories making waves among WWE fans.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Possible Match With The Rock
Roman Reigns, WWE’s reigning “Tribal Chief,” opened up during a recent Sports Illustrated Media podcast about his WrestleMania 40 experience and the shifts in planned opponents, notably The Rock and Cody Rhodes. Initially, WWE seemed poised to have Reigns face off against The Rock, his cousin and one of the industry’s most iconic figures. However, after Cody Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, it looked like Rhodes would challenge Reigns instead, only for plans to pivot multiple times amid fan reactions.
Reigns downplayed any disappointment about facing Rhodes instead of The Rock, emphasizing the importance of being 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… 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.”
Following the changes, The Rock turned heel, rebranding as “The Final Boss” and aligning with Reigns, creating a thrilling dynamic that culminated in a tag team victory at Night 1 of WrestleMania 40 over Rhodes and Seth Rollins. The next night, Rhodes captured the WWE Championship by defeating Reigns.
When asked about the long-anticipated Rock vs. Reigns singles match, Roman suggested it remains a possibility if the fans clamour for it:
“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 WWE return last month at Bad Blood but has stayed off programming since. With the ongoing “Bloodline” saga and the upcoming WarGames match at Survivor Series, speculation is rife that The Rock may reemerge to build toward a marquee collision with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at Wrestling Dreams After WWE UK Tour Appearance
British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has stirred interest in stepping into the wrestling ring after spending time backstage during WWE’s recent UK tour.
In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury shared highlights of his WWE visit and expressed openness to a future in pro wrestling:
“So guys, that is a night at the WWE complete… Big up to Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, 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.”
Tommy Fury, 25, boasts an undefeated boxing record and notably handed Jake Paul his only loss, enhancing his status in combat sports. With his familial ties to Tyson Fury—who appeared in a WWE match at Crown Jewel 2019—and connections to the Paul brothers, potential storylines involving the Furies and Paul brothers could captivate mainstream audiences.
WWE appears to be keeping doors open for Fury as a potential crossover star, a move that could add fresh star power and intrigue to WWE programming.
Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Raises Questions
Oba Femi, a promising talent in WWE’s NXT brand and former North American Champion, has been noticeably absent from recent NXT tapings, fueling speculation among fans and insiders.
Fightful Select reports that Femi hasn’t been seen since losing his North American Championship in a surprise defeat to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. The former University of Alabama shot putter made a strong start after his televised debut in April 2023 by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and enjoying a record 272-day title reign.
The reason for his current absence remains unclear. It could be a strategic decision by NXT creative, a recovery period from injury, or preparation for a main roster call-up. When he returns, Femi is seen as a prime candidate to vie for the NXT Championship, potentially challenging current titleholder Trick Williams.
Final Thoughts
The WWE universe continues to evolve with high-profile matches, intriguing talent movements, and potential future rivalries on the horizon. Roman Reigns remains a central figure in the company’s narrative, while crossover athletes like Tommy Fury offer fresh excitement for fans. Meanwhile, NXT’s upcoming storyline directions will be closely watched with talents like Oba Femi awaiting their next spotlight moment.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage of WWE and the world of professional wrestling.
Reported by Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report