Roman Reigns, the reigning WWE Undisputed Universal Champion and undisputed powerhouse of professional wrestling, has a story that extends far beyond his current dominant reign. A recent interview sheds light on a challenging chapter in his career – the infamous crowd rejection at the 2015 Royal Rumble.
The Dream Turns Sour: The 2015 Royal Rumble
Roman Reigns’ journey to the top wasn’t always paved with cheers. In 2015, during his initial run as a “face” character (a good guy in wrestling lingo), he faced an unexpected hurdle – the wrath of the WWE Universe (fans) at the Royal Rumble event in Philadelphia.
The fans, for reasons largely related to a disconnect with his character at the time, overwhelmingly booed Reigns. The negativity was so strong that they even cheered for Rusev, a notorious villain, over Reigns.
This experience left a significant mark on Reigns. In a recent interview promoting his upcoming A&E documentary, he described the event as “historically booed,” further stating, “You dream about these moments. And the moment that it actually happens, it’s like they’re playing the worst soundtrack of all time over your moment, ruining your party. That’s how the Rumble in Philly felt. I try to forget Philly. I try to forget the Royal Rumble.”
The WWE even attempted to salvage the situation by bringing in The Rock, a legendary and beloved superstar, to endorse Reigns. However, the Philadelphia crowd’s disapproval extended to The Rock as well, leaving both men showered with boos.
From Retirement to Redemption
This challenging period almost led Roman Reigns to walk away from wrestling altogether. His wise advisor, Paul Heyman, revealed during the interview that during the COVID lockdowns, Reigns contemplated retirement.
Heyman stated, “He considered himself retired. He wasn’t coming back.” He further elaborated on the situation, explaining, ” I was executive director of Monday Night Raw, and Roman was assigned to SmackDown. But every week, I heard all the SmackDown writers and producers and personnel saying, ‘God, I just wish Roman would come back.’”
Heyman continued, “And I would ask, has anybody talked to him? Yeah, he says he’s retired. He’s not coming back. No way. Thanks a lot. Done. Finished. Goodbye.’ So the fact that he came back for this run, for what we have accomplished, is nothing short of a miracle because, as far as he was concerned, he was out.”
Roman Reigns: A Champion Forged in Fire
Roman Reigns’ perseverance through adversity is a testament to his character. He overcame the negativity and self-doubt, eventually returning with a vengeance. In 2020, he re-emerged as a completely transformed character – “The Head of the Table” Roman Reigns, a ruthless and dominant force.
This reinvention, coupled with his undeniable talent and dedication, has propelled him to the top of the wrestling world. He currently holds the prestigious title of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, the longest reigning champion in the history of the title.
Roman Reigns’ journey from rejected to revered is a story of resilience and reinvention. It serves as an inspiration, not only for aspiring wrestlers but for anyone facing challenges and setbacks in their own lives.
