WWE Updates: Roman Reigns on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes Wrestling, and Oba Femi’s NXT Absence
Bleacher Report brings you the latest buzz from the WWE world, including insights from Roman Reigns, potential new wrestling talent, and the status of a rising NXT star.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Opponents and Possible Future Rock Match
In a recent interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns opened up about his WrestleMania 40 storyline and the evolving roles of The Rock and Cody Rhodes.
Reigns was asked if he was disappointed that he faced Cody Rhodes in WrestleMania’s main event instead of a highly anticipated match with The Rock. Reigns downplayed any preference, stating that the opponents didn’t matter as much as maintaining his place 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," Reigns remarked, describing himself as the "hot chick" everyone aimed to take down. He emphasized the importance of defending his title against those trying to topple him and his faction, the Bloodline.
The storyline twists leading into WrestleMania 40 saw Cody Rhodes winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble but initially declining to challenge Reigns. This opened the door for The Rock’s return, who then aligned with Reigns as "The Final Boss" after turning heel. Together, The Rock and Reigns defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes capturing the WWE Championship from Reigns in the Night 2 main event.
While the much-anticipated Reigns vs. The Rock match did not happen, Reigns suggested it could still occur if enough fan interest builds.
"If that’s what the people want and The People’s Champ is down, I’m sure we can make something happen," he added, acknowledging WWE’s responsiveness to the fans’ voices. The Rock made a surprise appearance recently at the Bad Blood event but has yet to clarify his future plans in WWE. Fans may see him again soon as both versions of the Bloodline prepare for a high-stakes WarGames match at Survivor Series.
Boxer Tommy Fury Teases Prospective WWE Career
Tommy Fury, a professional boxer known for his undefeated record and famous family ties, recently hinted at exploring a career in WWE.
Posting a video backstage at a recent WWE UK tour event, Fury expressed gratitude for the warm reception from WWE superstars like Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther. He left fans curious by saying, "I look forward to possibly climbing through those ropes one day."
Fury is the younger brother of Tyson Fury, the former world heavyweight boxing champion who had a brief stint in WWE, notably defeating Braun Strowman at Crown Jewel 2019. Tyson also made headlines for disrupting Austin Theory’s Money in the Bank cash-in at WWE Clash at the Castle in 2022. Given Tommy Fury’s undefeated boxing career and his connections to the Paul brothers, who have cross-promoted in WWE—particularly Logan Paul, a former United States Champion—there is potential for intriguing matchups or even tag team scenarios involving the Fury and Paul families. WWE is likely to keep an eye on Fury as a possible future addition.
NXT Star Oba Femi’s Recent Absence Sparks Speculation
Oba Femi, a former NXT North American Champion, has notably been absent from NXT tapings for the past month following a pair of tough losses.
According to Fightful Select, Femi has not been seen since his title loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27 and subsequent rematch defeat. No official reasons have been disclosed for his absence.
Since debuting in NXT in April 2023, Oba Femi built an impressive resume, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and enjoying a record-breaking 272-day reign as North American Champion after defeating Dragon Lee. His recent setbacks mark the first televised losses of his career.
The hiatus could indicate several possibilities: a strategic break to reset his character, recovery from injury, or even preparation for a main roster call-up. When he returns, many anticipate Femi will be poised to challenge for the NXT Championship once again, given his strong start and notable athletic background as a former University of Alabama shot put athlete.
Stay tuned for more updates as WWE continues to shake up its roster and storylines heading into the new year.