The power dynamics on WWE programming have shifted dramatically since Roman Reigns’ last appearance, leaving the former champion in an unfamiliar position: outmanned and isolated. While Reigns has been on an indefinite hiatus since his defeat at WrestleMania 41, Seth Rollins and his allies have asserted their dominance, creating a significant obstacle for any potential return.
Reigns was written off television following the WWE RAW after WrestleMania 41, where he suffered an attack at the hands of Rollins and Bron Breakker. The segment was compounded by the ultimate betrayal from his special counsel, Paul Heyman, who appeared to align himself with this new emerging power structure, leaving Reigns without his long-time strategist.
This turn of events leaves Reigns at a critical numerical disadvantage. For years, he leveraged the power of The Bloodline to maintain control, but he now finds himself on the outside looking in, facing a unified front. For his return to be effective, he would need to assemble his own backup to counter Rollins’ faction.
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A potential solution lies in his own family, starting with a reunion with his cousin, Jey Uso. Although their relationship has been turbulent, Jey was a cornerstone of Reigns’ historic championship run. More importantly, Jey has his own vendetta against Rollins’ group, who played a role in weakening him before his World Heavyweight Championship match against Gunther. This shared enemy could forge a powerful alliance, with Jey stepping into the role of a renewed enforcer.
To replace the treacherous Heyman, Reigns could look to a figure who embodies family loyalty: his father, WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi. Tapping Rikishi to serve as a new special counsel would provide Reigns with decades of experience and a trusted advisor whose allegiance is to family above all else, a stark contrast to Heyman’s apparent opportunism.
The formation of this new trio would instantly reshape the main event picture, creating a formidable family-driven force to directly oppose Rollins. The combination of Reigns’ leadership, Jey’s fire, and Rikishi’s veteran guidance could be the perfect formula to reclaim control. This strategic shift also aligns with Reigns’ burgeoning Hollywood career, allowing him to potentially adopt a less physically demanding role while relying on his reinforced family to handle the day-to-day conflicts.
Bron Breakker aligns with Seth Rollins & Paul Heyman!
— Joey Karni (@theanglejoey) April 22, 2025
Brilliance #WWERAW pic.twitter.com/1qqQ5r4LYl
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