Roman Reigns Talks The Rock, Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Career, and NXT Rumors on Oba Femi
By Mike Chiari, Bleacher Report, November 27, 2024
Bleacher Report rounds up some of the latest developments and insights from the WWE Universe, including Roman Reigns’ recent comments on WrestleMania 40 opponents, Tommy Fury’s interest in WWE, and the current status of NXT star Oba Femi.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 and Potential Match With The Rock
Roman Reigns recently sat down for an interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, where he shared his thoughts on facing both The Rock and Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40. Originally, WWE appeared to be deciding between the two opponents for Reigns’ main event defense of the WWE Championship.
When asked if he was disappointed that he ended up facing Rhodes instead of The Rock, Reigns was clear:
"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."
This came after Rhodes won the 2024 Men’s Royal Rumble but initially announced he would not challenge Reigns at WrestleMania 40, paving the way for The Rock’s appearance. However, due to mixed fan reactions, Rhodes soon reversed course, and The Rock turned heel as "The Final Boss," aligning with Reigns. Together, Reigns and The Rock defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins during Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, before Rhodes reclaimed the WWE Championship from Reigns on Night 2. Discussing the long-anticipated Rock vs. Reigns singles match that never materialized at WrestleMania, Reigns stated the possibility remains open, particularly if fans demonstrate strong interest:
"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."
Notably, The Rock made an unannounced return last month at WWE’s Bad Blood event, though he did not clarify his future plans. With upcoming marquee matches such as the WarGames event at Survivor Series, speculation is swirling that The Rock could appear again and possibly set the stage for a future showdown with Reigns.
Tommy Fury Hints at Exploring WWE Opportunities
British boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother to former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, appeared backstage at a recent WWE event during their UK tour and hinted at potential wrestling ambitions.
In a YouTube video posted Sunday, Fury expressed his appreciation for WWE talent and the experience of attending a live show:
"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."
Tyson Fury previously dabbled in WWE, notably defeating Braun Strowman by count-out at Crown Jewel 2019, and making headlines for knocking out Austin Theory in the crowd at Clash at the Castle 2022. Tommy, undefeated in professional boxing at 10-0 and known for a win over Jake Paul, could be a natural fit for WWE storylines, especially considering his ties to the Paul family. A future feud or tag match featuring the Fury brothers and Paul brothers could attract significant mainstream interest.
Oba Femi’s Absence from NXT Sparks Speculation
Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has reportedly been absent from NXT tapings since his loss at Halloween Havoc on October 27. According to Fightful Select, there have been no reports of Femi backstage for recent episodes.
Femi had a breakout run since debuting on NXT television in April 2023, winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and capturing the North American Championship from Dragon Lee. He held the title a record-setting 272 days before dropping it to Tony D’Angelo last month. Femi also lost a rematch against D’Angelo at Halloween Havoc.
His current absence from TV could be a result of a number of factors, including time off to regroup after consecutive losses or potential injury. Another possibility is that WWE is preparing to elevate him to the main roster or position him for a fresh run upon his return. When Femi does come back, he is widely considered a strong contender for the NXT Championship and a logical candidate to challenge current titleholder Trick Williams.
Summary
- Roman Reigns remains unfazed by the WrestleMania 40 main event switch and is open to a future match with The Rock if fans show a strong demand.
- Boxer Tommy Fury teases potential involvement with WWE after appearing backstage at a recent show, suggesting interest in pursuing professional wrestling.
- Oba Femi’s recent absence from NXT programming has sparked rumors, but his return could see him positioned for a major title push in NXT.
Stay tuned to Bleacher Report for all the latest updates on these and other WWE stories.