Welcome to the latest installment of the daily WWE Rumor Roundup, your go-to source for the latest buzz and updates from the world of sports entertainment. In today’s edition, we’ll delve into some intriguing stories surrounding notable figures such as Roman Reigns, Piper Niven, and Tama Tonga.
The ongoing saga of The Bloodline continues to captivate, with a recent development seeing The Rock officially join the faction. However, it appears he won’t be the only seasoned veteran to join their ranks, as another prominent name is reportedly being considered. Additionally, we’ll provide an update on Piper Niven’s status amidst swirling injury rumors.
1) Piper Niven’s Injury Update
Recent reports from Fightful suggest that Niven has been absent from television due to a hand injury sustained last month. Speculation indicates that the 32-year-old may have suffered a fracture in her hand.
Niven’s last in-ring appearance was in a tag team match against Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark on the January 29 episode of RAW.
While Niven has been sidelined, her tag team partner, Chelsea Green, continues to feature regularly, even participating in the Last Chance Battle Royal on the recent go-home RAW for Elimination Chamber.
2) Tama Tonga’s Potential Addition to The Bloodline
According to comments made on Wrestling Observer Radio by Dave Meltzer, there’s speculation that Tama Tonga could align himself with Roman Reigns, The Rock, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa once he officially signs with WWE. Tonga is already regarded as part of the family by these individuals.
“He’s on his way. Don’t know the role. [It’s] very likely, at some point, [he] could be part of the Bloodline situation because he’s considered family by all those guys. So if they need somebody new, it could be him,” Meltzer stated.
Though not a direct relative, the 41-year-old former NJPW star shares a deep connection to the Anoa’i family through his adoptive father, Haku. This familial tie could potentially pave the way for Tonga’s inclusion in The Bloodline, with WWE possibly crafting a storyline around this established relationship.
3) Nick Bonnano Departs WWE
In a recent report from Mike Johnson of PW Insider, it was revealed that NXT writer Nick Bonanno has parted ways with WWE. Bonanno, who had been a member of NXT’s creative team, reportedly left the company following the latest round of television tapings.
This departure follows another exit from the company, with writer Jennifer Pepperman recently joining AEW. Bonanno had been with WWE for a year and had prior experience working with various wrestling promotions before joining the company.