Roman Reigns is expected to make his return to WWE television at the upcoming Royal Rumble event. However, current reports suggest he may not be immediately thrust back into the top title scene upon his arrival.
According to a report from Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the “Tribal Chief” is currently not factored into the immediate plans for the WWE Championship. Meltzer stated, “We were told that Reigns will be the odd man out of the WWE title picture. He is scheduled to return at the Rumble and one would expect his direction to be clearer there.”
This news comes as speculation runs rampant regarding the main event picture for WrestleMania 42. With Reigns reportedly on the outside looking in regarding the championship, questions now arise as to who his opponent will be for the biggest show of the year.
The Royal Rumble takes place on Saturday, January 31, and traditionally sets the stage for the company’s major storylines heading into the spring. Reigns’ return at the event would mark his first appearance since taking a hiatus. Original plans called for him to work with Cody Rhodes for the WWE Title at Mania before plans were changed.
