Roman Reigns Nearing WWE Return, Shaking Up WrestleMania Landscape

Roman Reigns Nearing WWE Return

The Tribal Chief is coming back. Multiple reports indicate that Roman Reigns, Roman Reigns Nearing WWE Return | absent from WWE programming since last November, is set for an imminent return to television. His comeback is poised to dramatically reshape the world title picture as the road to WrestleMania 42 heats up.

A Prolonged Absence
Reigns has not been seen on WWE programming since the Survivor Series: WarGames event in November 2025 . At that event, he competed on the losing team in a match that saw a mysterious interference cost his squad the victory. This extended break is consistent with his part-time schedule since becoming the dominant “Tribal Chief,” a character whose rare appearances have become major events.

The Imminent Return and WrestleMania Speculation
According to reports from Self Made Pro on the Self Made Sessions podcast, Reigns will soon resume making appearances, specifically on Friday Night SmackDown. While an exact date is not confirmed, this news has immediately fueled intense speculation about his role at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.

Central to the planning is the potential for another chapter in the storied rivalry between Reigns and Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that a match between the two is in WWE’s plans, though it may not necessarily be slated for WrestleMania itself . This leaves creative avenues open, with other potential marquee matches for Reigns being discussed internally, including bouts against CM Punk or The Rock, should the latter be available.

Impact on the Road to WrestleMania
Reigns’ return adds urgency and uncertainty to WWE’s biggest season. It directly impacts the ongoing championship feuds on both brands. Current plans have reportedly been fluid, especially with Seth Rollins—a potential Reigns opponent—still sidelined by a shoulder injury. As Rhodes prepares for his own high-stakes title defense, the looming presence of Reigns changes the calculus for every top star.

Furthermore, Reigns’ expected return to SmackDown aligns with the brand’s move to a three-hour format and the fast-approaching Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia on January 31. His presence is a guaranteed draw and provides creative a powerful tool to build major stories for the spring.

Analyst Perspectives on the Best Path Forward
Wrestling analysts are divided on how best to utilize The Tribal Chief. Some believe the clear, money-drawing path is to reignite the feud with Cody Rhodes, citing years of narrative build-up that demands a conclusion. Others argue that Reigns no longer needs a title to feel important and could be used to elevate a newer star like Oba Femi or to revisit unresolved Bloodline family drama. The common thread is that his return, regardless of opponent, automatically elevates any WrestleMania match card.

A Major Piece Returns to the Board
In summary, Roman Reigns is on the verge of resuming his place on WWE television, with his sights seemingly set on the championship scene. While a third WrestleMania clash with Cody Rhodes is strongly rumored, WWE’s creative team is reportedly weighing multiple blockbuster options. The Tribal Chief’s return is the catalyst that will define the coming months, setting the stage for the most critical decisions on the path to WrestleMania 42.