Roman Reigns Opens Up on The Rock and Cody Rhodes, Tommy Fury Eyes WWE Future, and NXT’s Oba Femi Remains Absent
In recent developments within the WWE universe, Roman Reigns offered candid insights on his WrestleMania 40 main event opponents, Tommy Fury hinted at a potential wrestling career with WWE, and questions swirl about the absence of NXT star Oba Femi. Here’s a detailed update on these key stories.
Roman Reigns Reflects on WrestleMania 40 Matchup and The Rock
During an interview on the SI Media podcast with Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina, Roman Reigns discussed the lead-up to WrestleMania 40 and the shifting dynamics in the main event scene. Initially, there was speculation Reigns would face his cousin and WWE legend The Rock. However, the spotlight ultimately settled on Cody Rhodes, following his victory in the 2024 men’s Royal Rumble.
Reigns emphasized that who he faced was less important than the fact that he was in the main event defending his championship:
“It doesn’t matter to me. I was the main event. I’m the guy that everyone wanted to dance with. 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.”
While Rhodes initially appeared set to forgo challenging Reigns at WrestleMania, shifting the stage for The Rock to return as a challenger, fan backlash prompted a reversal. The Rock then turned heel, adopting the persona “The Final Boss” and aligned with Reigns. Together, The Rock and Reigns defeated Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania 40, with Rhodes ultimately reclaiming the WWE Championship by besting Reigns on Night 2. When asked about the possibility of a future one-on-one showdown with The Rock, Reigns remained open, emphasizing fan influence:
“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 recently made an unexpected return at WWE’s Bad Blood event but has yet to clarify his long-term intentions. With The Bloodline’s new and original factions clashing at Survivor Series, speculation grows that The Rock could reappear and build toward the highly anticipated match against his cousin.
Tommy Fury Hints at WWE Ambitions
Boxer Tommy Fury, younger brother of former world heavyweight champ Tyson Fury, teased a possible venture into professional wrestling. In a YouTube video showing backstage moments from WWE’s UK tour, Fury expressed enthusiasm about his experience meeting WWE Superstars including Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Gunther:
“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, 25, is undefeated in professional boxing and is known for handing Jake Paul his only loss. Given his ties to the Paul family and his sporting background, a crossover into WWE, perhaps including a storyline with Logan Paul—a WWE Superstar and former U.S. Champion—could capture mainstream attention. WWE is likely keeping an eye on the budding possibility.
Oba Femi’s Absence From NXT Raises Questions
Reports indicate that Oba Femi, former NXT North American Champion, has not been seen at recent NXT tapings since his defeat to Tony D’Angelo at the Halloween Havoc event on October 27. According to Fightful Select, there has been no backstage presence or updates on Femi, whose lengthy 272-day title reign ended when D’Angelo won the North American Championship. Femi also lost a rematch at Halloween Havoc. His current absence may be a strategic move by NXT to allow a reset after two significant losses, or it could hint at an injury or possible impending call-up to WWE’s main roster.
Femi, a former University of Alabama shot put athlete, rose quickly through NXT, winning the Breakout Tournament and claiming the North American title in his televised debut year. Upon his return, he is expected to emerge as a contender for the NXT Championship, potentially challenging current titleholder Trick Williams.
Stay Tuned for Further WWE Updates
As WWE continues to evolve with new storylines and emerging talent, these developments offer fans plenty to watch. Roman Reigns’ openness to future bouts, Tommy Fury’s budding wrestling interest, and Oba Femi’s mysterious hiatus from NXT all contribute to the dynamic landscape of professional wrestling in 2024. For in-depth wrestling discussions and updates, listeners can check out the latest episodes of Ring Rust Radio and other wrestling news outlets.
