WWE News Roundup: Roman Reigns turns babyface, huge injury, current champion busted open at SummerSlam
We are back with another exciting edition of the WWE News Roundup. Triple H booked a blockbuster show for SummerSlam 2024. Today's list looks at Roman Reigns making the biggest return of the year, Cody Rhodes' honest reaction to the main event surprise, and backstage updates on top stars possibly sustaining injuries during the recently concluded premium live event.
Here, we look at the biggest stories that have dominated the WWE headlines today. So, without further ado, let's begin.
#1 Roman Reigns makes an epic return at SummerSlam
Roman Reigns made his much-awaited return at SummerSlam during the main event. The main event of the show saw Solo Sikoa challenge Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship in a Bloodline Rules Match. The closing moments of the title bout saw Reigns walk out to a thunderous pop and attack Sikoa.
His interference allowed The American Nightmare to turn the match in his favor. Cody Rhodes eventually managed to get back in control and pinned Sikoa after a Cross Rhodes to retain his gold. Reigns returned as the "Original Tribal Chief" and immediately declared war against the new Bloodline, turning babyface after a prolonged heel run. Triple H will likely book Reigns as the biggest hero in the coming weeks, especially in his feud against Solo Sikoa.
#2 Jacob Fatu potentially injured at SummerSlam
Jacob Fatu has played an integral role in the Solo Sikoa-run Bloodline since making his debut on SmackDown. He won the WWE Tag Team Championship alongside Tama Tonga on the blue brand last week but unfortunately suffered a potential injury at SummerSlam.
Fatu made his impact evident during the Bloodline Rules Match by targeting Cody Rhodes. He took out The American Nightmare with a huge splash as the champion was laid on the announcer's desk from the top rope. However, Jacob seemingly injured his ankle upon landing and was seen being helped backstage by the referees after the bout.
#3 Triple H shares an update on WWE Superstars' injury at SummerSlam
Triple H shared details on two WWE Superstars who had sustained injuries at SummerSlam during the post-show press conference. The Game revealed that Jacob Fatu and Logan Paul were "banged up." He stated that they hoped Jacob Fatu's injury was not severe, but there was no concrete update on The Bloodline member's immediate future.
"Unfortunately, (Jacob Fatu) got a little bit banged up in that last match. The only two real… Logan's a little banged up, as he should be, and Jacob's a little banged up. I'll see where that nets out here in a little bit. Hopefully nothing serious, but it was bugging him a little bit, the leg, so we'll see where he is," said Triple H. [1:06:45 onwards]
While Jacob Fatu failed to help Solo Sikoa and The Bloodline at SummerSlam, Logan Paul lost his title at the show. He put his United States Championship on the line against LA Knight in an intense match that ended with the latter winning his first singles title in WWE.
#4 Cody Rhodes breaks silence on Roman Reigns' surprise turn
Cody Rhodes has been involved in an extensive feud with The Bloodline for most of the year. Thus, he was surprised by Roman Reigns' attack on Sikoa, which allowed The American Nightmare to retain his gold. Cody Rhodes addressed Roman Reigns' return at SummerSlam and said he may owe one to The Original Tribal Chief. However, he refused to acknowledge a potential friendship between them.
"I don't want to fill the room with positive platitudes and hot air about the 'real Tribal Chief' Roman Reigns returning, but without a doubt, that probably would have gone a different way. I probably wouldn't be sitting here with the North Star of the industry had it not been for Roman. So he's certainly... I've got quite a list of people who I owe one, I might owe him more than one. And again, no love lost, that's as much of a shoot as it gets. There's a unique relationship I suppose. Haven't seen or spoken since WrestleMania," said Cody Rhodes. [H/T - WrestleTalk]
Cody Rhodes was the only champion from SmackDown who successfully defended his title at SummerSlam. As mentioned before, Logan Paul lost his United States Championship to LA Knight. Additionally, Nia Jax defeated Bayley to win the WWE Women's Championship on the show.
#5 Gunther busted open during title match at SummerSlam
Gunther took to the ring at SummerSlam, hoping to win his first world title in WWE. He challenged Damian Priest for the World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam in a gruesome match that saw The Ring General busted open. He was covered in blood trickling down his chest for a good few minutes while locking horns with The Archer of Infamy.
Gunther came close to losing his title shot but received unexpected assistance from Finn Balor. The Prince betrayed his fellow Judgment Day member and prevented him from pinning the challenger. The latter recovered quickly and rapidly turned things around to pull off a memorable title victory.