WWE News & Rumor Roundup: Roman Reigns' return confirmed, Nikki Bella files for divorce, huge heel turn on SmackDown?
We are back with another exciting edition of WWE News and Rumor Roundup. Today's list looks at the latest update on Nikki Bella whose husband was recently arrested for alleged domestic violence. Additionally, we came across huge plans for SmackDown's season premiere on the USA Network, including an update on Roman Reigns' return.
Here, we look at the biggest stories that have dominated WWE headlines over the last 24 hours. So, without further ado, let's begin.
#1 Nikki Bella reportedly files for divorce with husband amid reported domestic violence charges
Former WWE champion Nikki Bella has reportedly filed for divorce with husband Artem Chigvintsev, who was arrested last month on the grounds of felony corporal injury to spouse or cohabitant. The couple married two years ago and have two children together.
Nikki is reportedly staying with her family in Napa County, while Artem is living with a friend. The police had spotted injuries on the victim when they arrived following the 911 call which led to Artem's arrest, while eyewitnesses remained at the scene.
#2 WWE confirms Roman Reigns' return on SmackDown this week
SmackDown is set to air a massive show for its season premiere on the USA Network on Friday. The blockbuster show will see Cody Rhodes put his Undisputed WWE Championship on the line against Solo Sikoa in a Steel Cage Match.
The episode will feature Roman Reigns' long-awaited return, as hinted by the promotion's latest announcement for the program. The Original Tribal Chief has been advertised for SmackDowm this week, marking his first appearance on the blue brand since the August 16th edition of the Friday night show.
#3 Former champion reportedly nearing a massive return after almost 200 days
Raquel Rodriguez has been missing from television after being sidelined due to medical reasons. She last competed on the RAW after Elimination Chamber and was pulled from the active roster the following month.
A new report has indicated that Raquel Rodriguez is nearing her return after almost seven months away from the squared circle. Several backstage pitches have revolved around her return to in-ring competition, but no details have been revealed on plans for her future feuds.
#4 Huge heel turn is a major possibility on WWE SmackDown season premiere, per analyst
Several in the WWE Universe expected Kevin Owens to turn heel after he failed to dethrone Cody Rhodes at Bash in Berlin. Analyst Peter Rosenberg believes Owens may turn heel on SmackDown this week to set up a title rematch with The American Nightmare at Bad Blood.
"I also think there's, two things, I think KO's gonna probably get Cody at Bad Blood. I don't know where else they're gonna go. [Or we get no Cody?] In Atlanta? Has to be. He has to be in Atlanta. There's no way. So, maybe we get heel KO this week," he said. [49:14 - 49:34]
While Cody is set to defend his title in the main event of the SmackDown season premiere, Kevin Owens is scheduled to take on A-Town Down Under in a tag team match. This bout could see Randy Orton return on the blue brand and join forces with Owens to take on Austin Theory and Grayson Waller amid their long-standing rivalry.
#5 Triple H seemingly scrapped major plans for WWE RAW at the last minute
WWE delivered an entertaining show for Monday Night RAW earlier this week, which saw The Wyatt Sicks beat American Made in an epic opening match. Backstage reports have claimed that Triple H scrapped massive plans for a stable on the show.
One of the factions on RAW was seemingly going to gain a new member until the plans were scrapped at the last minute. Triple H, however, remains invested in building factions on the red brand, with several top groups taking the limelight.