Roman Reigns, as The Tribal Chief of The Bloodline, stands as one of pro wrestling’s biggest stars, boasting an unparalleled run of dominance.
The Unified WWE Universal Champion, with seven WrestleMania main events, has left an indelible mark on the industry.
However, WWE’s decisions with Reigns at WrestleMania have not always been flawless. Let’s delve into four instances where questionable choices were made.
1. WrestleMania 31: Premature Push Against Brock Lesnar
Reigns’ rapid ascent began with a match against Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 31. Despite a lack of experience and questionable promo skills, Reigns won the 2015 Royal Rumble and headlined WrestleMania.
While the match exceeded expectations, fan resentment stemmed from the rush, hindering Reigns from becoming the beloved babyface he was destined to be.
2. WrestleMania 32: Underdog Angle Against Triple H
At WrestleMania 32, Reigns faced Triple H in a lackluster main event, with fans disinterested in the outcome.
Portraying Reigns as an underdog contradicted his anti-hero persona, resulting in a match that failed to resonate with the audience. A more rebellious booking might have garnered better fan support.
3. WrestleMania 35: Lackluster Clash with Drew McIntyre
Reigns’ return at WrestleMania 35, post a leukemia battle, saw him against Drew McIntyre.
The match failed to leave a lasting impact, with lackluster crowd engagement. Delaying Reigns’ return and reconsidering the match placement could have enhanced its significance.
4. WrestleMania 33: Controversial “Retirement” of The Undertaker
In a controversial move, Reigns “retired” The Undertaker at WrestleMania 33. The bout, marred by ‘Taker’s physical limitations, resulted in a botch-filled finale. While ‘Taker’s return nullified the retirement angle, the decision to have a polarizing figure retire a revered icon backfired.
Roman Reigns’ journey at WrestleMania showcases both triumphs and missteps. While he continues to be a dominant force, these instances highlight the intricate dance between storytelling and fan reception in the world of professional wrestling.
