Roman Reigns Talks The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Spot; NXT Rumors on Oba Femi
Bleacher Report brings you the latest updates from the WWE Universe, including insights from Roman Reigns about his WrestleMania 40 opponents, potential WWE aspirations from boxer Tommy Fury, and recent developments surrounding NXT star Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 and Discusses a Future Match with The Rock
In a candid interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns opened up about the WrestleMania 40 main event dynamics involving himself, The Rock, and Cody Rhodes.
Reigns was asked about the shifting plans that saw him face Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock at WrestleMania 40. He expressed that the identity of his opponent was less important than the fact he was the main event and the target to beat.
"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."
Originally, after winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, Cody Rhodes had indicated he would not challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania, with The Rock seemingly set to take the spot. However, fan backlash led to a reversal, with Rhodes eventually challenging Reigns and The Rock turning heel to align with Reigns as "The Final Boss." The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes capturing the WWE title from Reigns on Night 2. Regarding the much-anticipated showdown between Reigns and The Rock that fans have awaited for years, Reigns suggested a future match could happen if the fans demand it:
"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. 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 appearance recently at the Bad Blood event but did not reveal any future plans and has not reappeared on WWE programming since. With the ongoing Bloodline faction storyline and a WarGames match scheduled for Survivor Series, speculation is high that The Rock might reemerge to further build toward a family showdown with his cousin, Reigns.
Tommy Fury Shows Interest in WWE Career After Backstage Visits
Professional boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury, has hinted at a possible future in WWE. In a recent YouTube video, Tommy was seen backstage at a WWE event during the company’s tour of the United Kingdom, where he met stars such as Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
Tommy expressed his fascination with the wrestling world and his openness to pursuing a wrestling career one day:
"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 is undefeated as a professional boxer and is known for being the only fighter to defeat Jake Paul. Given his connections to the Paul family and his athletic background, a WWE career—potentially involving storylines with Logan Paul, a current WWE Superstar—could appeal to a broader audience. WWE could explore enticing options such as a Paul brothers versus Fury brothers tag team rivalry, creating crossover interest for fans of both boxing and wrestling.
Oba Femi Reportedly Missing from NXT After Key Losses
NXT star Oba Femi, the former North American Champion, has not been seen on NXT television or backstage in recent weeks. According to reports from Fightful Select, Femi has been absent since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. The cause of his absence is currently unknown, though it may be a strategic move by NXT management to allow Femi time to recover and reset after losing the North American Championship—ending his record-breaking 272-day title reign—and a subsequent rematch defeat.
Since debuting in April 2023, Femi quickly made his mark by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Title from Dragon Lee. His sudden disappearance from programming has sparked speculation about a possible main roster call-up, injury, or a storyline hiatus to build anticipation for his return.
When he does return, Femi is viewed as a strong contender to challenge for the NXT Championship, potentially taking the title from current champion Trick Williams.
What’s Next in WWE?
The WWE Universe continues to buzz with excitement as major stars and up-and-coming talent like Roman Reigns, The Rock, Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury, and Oba Femi shape the landscape. Fans will be keenly watching upcoming events like Survivor Series and future WWE programming for new developments.
For ongoing discussions and the hottest takes in wrestling, check out Ring Rust Radio and stay tuned to Bleacher Report for all your WWE news.
Photo Caption: Roman Reigns and The Rock looking back at the ring after their tag team victory against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. (WWE/Getty Images)