Roman Reigns: WWE Highlights, Title Defenses & More!
Could Roman Reigns, the man they call the 'Head of the Table', be the most dominant champion in professional wrestling history? His reign, marked by an iron grip on the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, has rewritten the record books, leaving fans and critics alike to ponder the extent of his influence on the sport.
The narrative surrounding Roman Reigns is one of constant evolution, a testament to his adaptability and unwavering focus. From his days as a member of The Shield, where he first showcased his power and athleticism, to his current persona as the imposing 'Tribal Chief,' Reigns has consistently captivated audiences. His journey, however, is far from a simple ascent; it's a carefully constructed saga of ambition, adversity, and ultimately, triumph. His matches against Brock Lesnar, John Cena, and Cody Rhodes are now considered to be among the greatest matches ever.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Leati Joseph "Joe" Anoa'i |
| Born | May 25, 1985 (age 38 years), Pensacola, Florida, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (191 cm) |
| Weight | 265 lb (120 kg) |
| Spouse | Galina Becker (m. 2014) |
| Children | 5 |
| Professional Wrestling Career | 2010present |
| Debut | 2010 |
| Trained by | Afa Anoai, Sika Anoai, Mike Knox, and others |
| Notable Aliases | Roman Reigns, "The Tribal Chief", "The Big Dog" |
| Signature Moves | Spear, Superman Punch |
| Championships and Accomplishments | 4-time WWE World Champion, 2-time WWE Universal Champion, 2015 Royal Rumble winner, WWE Tag Team Champion, WWE Superstar of the Year (2022, 2023), Multiple Slammy Awards |
| Reference | WWE.com |
The 'Road to Wrestlemania' often involves a series of compelling matches, and for Reigns, this has meant a series of confrontations with some of the greatest wrestlers of our time. The match at Wrestlemania 32, where the 'Big Dog' had to fight the 'King of Kings' was the beginning of the legacy Reigns was about to create. His rivalry with Brock Lesnar, stretching from Summerslam 2021 to 2022, culminated in a series of brutal battles that tested the limits of both men. The match at Wrestlemania 38, where Reigns and Lesnar had their biggest Wrestlemania match of all time, marked a high point in their feud, a clash of titans that left a lasting impression on the wrestling world. And of course, we can't forget his epic battles with John Cena.
Reigns' dominance extends beyond the ring, permeating the world of video games. He has been a prominent figure in the WWE 2K series, appearing in numerous installments, including WWE 2K14, WWE 2K15, WWE 2K16, WWE 2K17, WWE 2K18, WWE 2K19, WWE 2K20 (as the cover star), WWE 2K22, WWE 2K23, WWE 2K24, and even WWE 2K25 (again as cover star), solidifying his presence in the digital realm. Additionally, his likeness has been used in Madden NFL 24 as part of the reel deals promotion.
The responsibility of leading the legendary Anoa'i family, a wrestling dynasty, could break lesser individuals. Yet, for Reigns, it has been just another layer to his reign as the 'Head of the Table.' He has embraced the mantle, and his story is still unfolding. The man who was told his entire life that he could not accomplish his goals, now eyes the path of The Rock.
The matches against Cody Rhodes, particularly the one at Wrestlemania, underscored the stakes. Reigns faced Rhodes under 'Bloodline Rules,' adding a layer of complexity and intrigue to their rivalry. His confrontation with Seth Rollins for the new Universal Championship at Summerslam 2016 and his return after Wrestlemania XL to confront his cousin, Solo Sikoa, show Reigns' longevity and resilience.
Beyond the main event scenes and championship matches, Reigns has also engaged in less traditional matches. His match against Robert Roode in a tables match in a 2020 episode of Smackdown showed his willingness to compete in different styles. His memorable moments from 2021, which involved Brock Lesnar and John Cena, stand out.
The influence of Greco-Roman wrestling on the evolution of professional wrestling is undeniable. This ancient discipline, showcased at the 1896 Summer Olympics, has a legacy that resonates with the modern form of professional wrestling. Greco-Roman wrestling's fundamental techniques, and rules have shaped the way we experience the sport.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Origins | Ancient Greece and Rome |
| Objective | To pin the opponent's shoulders to the mat. |
| Key Rules | Wrestlers are only allowed to attack from the waist up; no use of legs to attack or defend. |
| Scoring | Points are awarded for takedowns, near falls, and other offensive maneuvers. |
| Techniques | Employs throws, lifts, and upper-body control. |
| Distinction from Freestyle Wrestling | The prohibition of leg attacks and defenses. |
The journey of Roman Reigns, from his early days in The Shield to his current status as the most dominant wrestler of our time, reflects both an adaptation of the sport and a firm grasp of the audience. His battles against John Cena, Brock Lesnar, and more have etched his name in the annals of wrestling history.
The WWE continues to deliver moments of greatness and the wrestlers, like Roman Reigns, will continue to strive for excellence.
