WWE News & Rumor Roundup: Roman Reigns confirmed for first match after 182 days, top heel breaks character, major contract reportedly won't be renewed
We are back with another exciting edition of WWE News & Rumor Roundup. Today's list looks at Roman Reigns' massive return on the SmackDown season premiere this week and subsequent details. Additionally, backstage reports hinted at significant developments on several contracts, including a new signing.
Here, we look at the biggest news and rumors that have dominated the WWE headlines over the last 24 hours. So, without further ado, let's begin.
#1. Roman Reigns returns on SmackDown
The latest episode of SmackDown marked Roman Reigns' return to the blue brand. The opening contest of the episode saw Cody Rhodes defeat Solo Sikoa in a Steel Cage match following an epic bout. The Bloodline appeared after the match and launched a vicious attack on the champion, leading to Roman Reigns making a massive return.
The Original Tribal Chief saved Cody Rhodes from The Bloodline, attacking Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa. However, Reigns and Jacob Fatu only engaged in a staredown before Sikoa prevented their potential brawl. Roman appeared later on during the show, which led to an interesting announcement confirming his next match, details of which are discussed further in this article.
#2. WWE is reportedly against renewing def rebel's contract
WWE's long-term association with def rebel is seemingly coming to an end. The band has produced countless themes for top superstars, including Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Rhea Ripley, amongst other notable names. The team has received mass criticism from fans for underwhelming themes.
A latest backstage report has claimed that the Stamford-based promotion will not renew its contract with def rebel when it expires. Instead, the promotion may explore new options while prioritizing future collaborations with mainstream artists.
#3. WWE announces Roman Reigns' next match, surprise tag team partner revealed
Roman Reigns' highly anticipated return on SmackDown was topped with a surprising announcement regarding his next match. The Original Tribal Chief will be in action at Bad Blood 2024 in a tag team match against The Bloodline's Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu.
Interestingly, Reigns will team up with Cody Rhodes, who defeated the former for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania XL. The two former rivals are now set to join forces to take on their common enemy in The Bloodline, confirming Reigns' in-ring return at Bad Blood after 182 days.
#4. WWE reportedly signs real-life Bloodline member's former manager
The Bloodline and its associates' presence continue to grow within WWE while the heel faction takes over the shows. A latest backstage report has revealed that the promotion has signed Armando Alejandro Estrada, who managed the late legend, Umaga.
Estrada has returned to the company after signing a Legend's contract. He first joined the promotion two decades ago, starting as a wrestler. However, Estrada grew to prominence while playing Umaga's manager on television.
#5. Randy Orton apologizes to Kevin Owens' former partner on SmackDown
Randy Orton returned on SmackDown this week to team up with Kevin Owens for a tag team match against A-Town Down Under. However, the creative team did not directly reveal The Viper as the surprise tag team partner. Instead, KO revealed debuting star Ricky as his ally for the match before finding out that Orton was in the arena.
When Owens got confirmation that Randy had arrived, he attacked Ricky to facilitate his replacement. Team R-KO picked up a victory over Austin Theory and Grayson Waller, following which Owens thanked Ricky while The Viper apologized for hijacking his breakout moment on SmackDown.