Roman Reigns Talks The Rock, Cody Rhodes; Tommy Fury Eyes Future in WWE; NXT Rumors Surround Oba Femi
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report – December 1, 2024
Bleacher Report provides the latest updates from the WWE Universe featuring insights from Roman Reigns on WrestleMania 40, a potential WWE career for boxer Tommy Fury, and speculation surrounding NXT star Oba Femi’s recent absence.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 and Possible Future Clash with The Rock
During an interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, Roman Reigns shared his thoughts on the route WWE took for WrestleMania 40, particularly the main event involving him, Cody Rhodes, and The Rock. (Starting at the 31:45 mark)
When asked if he was disappointed to face Cody Rhodes instead of The Rock in the main event, Reigns downplayed the importance of his opponent, emphasizing that being in the main event was what mattered most.
"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."
WrestleMania 40’s storyline included twists where Cody Rhodes, after winning the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble, initially declined to challenge Reigns for the WWE Championship, paving the way for The Rock’s involvement. However, fan reaction led to Rhodes reversing that decision. Subsequently, The Rock turned heel as "The Final Boss," aligning with Reigns. Together, The Rock and Reigns defeated Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, but Rhodes claimed the WWE title by defeating Reigns on Night 2. Given that the anticipated one-on-one clash between Reigns and The Rock didn’t take place, Traina asked if such a match could still happen in the future. Reigns expressed openness to the idea, emphasizing the influence of fan demand.
"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 return to WWE programming last month at Bad Blood but has yet to clarify his intentions or reappear since. With The Bloodline set for a high-profile WarGames match at Survivor Series, many speculate this could be the moment The Rock reemerges and begins the path to a future showdown with his cousin Reigns.
Boxer Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Aspirations
Tommy Fury, professional boxer and younger brother of former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has teased a possible transition into professional wrestling with WWE. In a YouTube video posted on Sunday during WWE’s UK tour, Fury shared his experiences backstage and expressed appreciation for WWE stars and the organization.
"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 boasts an undefeated 10-0 boxing record and is notably the only boxer to have beaten Jake Paul. Given his family ties and public association with the Paul brothers, there is strong potential for a crossover storyline, possibly facing Logan Paul—a current WWE Superstar and former United States Champion. A tag-team showdown pitting the Fury brothers against the Paul brothers could also attract mainstream interest.
NXT Star Oba Femi’s Recent Absence Sparks Speculation
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has not appeared on NXT television or backstage at recent tapings for about a month, raising questions about his status. According to Fightful Select, no word has surfaced regarding Femi’s whereabouts or upcoming plans since his loss to Tony D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc on October 27. After debuting on NXT television in April 2023, Femi experienced a strong push, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship with a record-setting 272-day reign. However, losses to D’Angelo—both the initial title defeat and a rematch at Halloween Havoc—have coincided with his sudden absence from NXT.
Insiders suggest that Femi’s time off could allow him to regroup following these setbacks, though possibilities include injury recovery or preparation for a main roster promotion. Reintroducing Femi later as a contender for the NXT Championship remains a strong option given his previous momentum and talent.
Bleacher Report will continue monitoring developments from the WWE roster and the NXT brand as new stories unfold. Stay tuned for more updates on your favorite WWE Superstars and emerging talents.
Photos: WWE/Getty Images
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