The wrestling universe was abuzz when Paul Heyman, the astute advisor to The Bloodline, disclosed during this week’s episode of SmackDown that Roman Reigns would be staying put on the blue brand, declining participation in the WWE Draft.
Ever since his defeat at WrestleMania XL against Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship, the Tribal Chief has been notably absent from WWE screens, leaving fans to speculate about his next move while witnessing significant shifts within The Bloodline.
Here are five potential rationales behind Reigns’ decision to remain on SmackDown:
1. Familiar Territory:
Reigns’ continuous presence on SmackDown might have influenced his decision to stay, given his longstanding prominence on the blue brand.
Paul Heyman elaborated further on Reigns’ absence, emphasizing the authenticity of a true Tribal Chief’s leadership, indicating that Reigns wouldn’t want to occupy a top draft spot if he couldn’t commit fully.
2. Drawing Power:
With SmackDown slated to transition to the USA Network next year, Reigns’ retention becomes pivotal as he continues to be a major attraction for viewership, ensuring continuity for loyal fans tuning in every Friday night.
3. Pursuit of Redemption:
Reigns’ defeat at the hands of Cody Rhodes could fuel his desire to reclaim the championship, setting the stage for a compelling rivalry upon his return to action.
4. Rebuilding The Bloodline:
The recent upheavals within The Bloodline, with Solo Sikoa emerging as a potential new leader, may prompt Reigns to secretly orchestrate a strategic reformation of the faction upon his comeback, solidifying his dominance once again.
5. Confronting Internal Discord:
Reigns might be monitoring the developments within The Bloodline from afar, witnessing Solo Sikoa’s unchecked actions and Paul Heyman’s apparent disapproval. His eventual return could herald a dramatic shift, as he seeks to rectify the discord within his faction and potentially align himself as a force for good.
As speculation runs rife, one thing remains certain: Roman Reigns’ presence looms large over SmackDown, promising intrigue and excitement as the WWE Draft unfolds and the saga of The Bloodline continues to charm audiences worldwide.
