Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock, Cody Rhodes, and Possible Future Showdown; Tommy Fury Eyes WWE; Oba Femi’s NXT Absence Sparks Speculation
By Mike Chiari – November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report catches you up on the latest developments from the WWE Universe, including Roman Reigns’ reflections on WrestleMania 40 opponents, boxer Tommy Fury’s burgeoning interest in WWE, and rumors surrounding NXT standout Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Talks WrestleMania 40, The Rock, and Cody Rhodes
In a recent interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE’s top star Roman Reigns shared his thoughts about the highly anticipated WrestleMania 40 main event and the changes regarding his opponent. The build-up to WrestleMania 40 saw WWE fans debating whether The Rock or Cody Rhodes would challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship.
Reigns revealed indifference about whether he faced Rhodes or The Rock as long as he remained 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," said Reigns. He framed the challenge as a battle to defend his place at the pinnacle of WWE, regardless of the opponent.
Initially, after Rhodes won the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, he declared he wouldn’t challenge Reigns at WrestleMania 40, suggesting The Rock would step in. However, fan backlash led Rhodes to reverse course, resulting in a heel turn for The Rock, who aligned with Reigns as “The Final Boss.” The Rock and Reigns teamed up to defeat Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania, only for Rhodes to capture the WWE Championship on Night 2 by pinning Reigns.
When asked if a dream match between Reigns and The Rock could still happen, Reigns left the door open depending on fan demand. “I think our fanbase and the company’s proven that if our fans are loud enough and passionate enough about something… If that’s what people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen," Reigns said.
The Rock made a surprise unannounced return at WWE’s Bad Blood event last month but has yet to clarify his intentions or return since. With upcoming major events like Survivor Series featuring intricate rivalries within The Bloodline faction, speculation grows that The Rock might reappear, potentially setting up a monumental clash with his cousin.
Tommy Fury Hints at Possible WWE Future
Boxing star Tommy Fury, who is the younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has teased a potential foray into WWE. Fury recently shared a backstage video from a WWE UK tour stop, where he mingled with top stars, including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther.
In the video, Fury expressed his appreciation and hinted at joining the pro wrestling world, stating: "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."
At 25 years old, Fury boasts an undefeated 10-0 boxing record and is notable for being the only boxer to defeat social media sensation Jake Paul. Given his family ties and his own rising profile, WWE could see value in bringing him in, especially considering the ongoing storylines involving the Paul brothers, including Logan Paul who holds WWE credentials and has served as United States Champion.
A tag team or rivalry featuring the Fury brothers versus the Paul brothers could appeal beyond traditional wrestling fans, potentially drawing broader mainstream interest.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Sparks Questions
NXT’s former North American Champion Oba Femi has reportedly been absent from WWE’s developmental brand tapings in recent weeks, raising questions about his status. Since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27, no credible reports have surfaced regarding Femi’s presence backstage.
Femi burst onto the scene with a dominant NXT debut in April 2023, capturing the NXT Breakout Tournament and then cashing in for the North American Championship by defeating Dragon Lee. His title reign lasted an impressive 272 days before unexpected losses to D’Angelo.
WWE insiders speculate his absence could be for multiple reasons: a possible injury, a break to reset character or storyline, or a preparation phase for a main roster call-up. Alternatively, NXT creative may be letting the impact of his recent losses cool off before reintroducing him as a contender, potentially targeting the NXT Championship.
Looking Ahead
The WWE Universe remains eager for standout moments, whether a future historic match between Roman Reigns and The Rock, the debut of a new star like Tommy Fury, or the resurrection of compelling characters such as Oba Femi in NXT. As WWE continues its blend of sports and entertainment, all eyes stay glued to the next big storylines heading into 2025. —
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