Oba Femi’s reign as NXT Champion came to an abrupt end at the No Mercy event, where he was defeated by Ricky Saints. This significant loss has many speculating that WWE plans to promote Femi to the main roster soon, either on RAW or SmackDown, which would set the stage for new rivalries featuring Oba Femi WWE opponents.
In this article, we explore five potential matchups that could serve as major storylines for Femi upon his main roster arrival.
Rusev Positioned as a Strong Initial Rival for Oba Femi
Though Oba Femi and Rusev have yet to face each other in singles competition, WWE might already be setting the stage to pit these two powerhouses against one another for Femi’s first main roster feud. The two have clashed previously in a Six-Man Tag Team match during an NXT live event, captivating fans who hope for a full-scale fight soon. Rusev, fresh off a demanding rivalry with Sheamus, is a natural contender to start this chapter.
Following Femi’s loss at No Mercy, WWE could orchestrate a storyline wherein Femi disrupts Rusev’s match against Dominik Mysterio, costing Rusev a shot at the Intercontinental Title. This interference would ignite unresolved tensions, prompting a brawl on the next episode of RAW. The rivalry could escalate through backstage altercations, culminating in a No Disqualification match at Survivor Series.
This brutal encounter could give Femi a commanding victory over Rusev, helping to establish his main roster credibility and laying the groundwork for future title ambitions.
Dream Match? 👀Rusev and @Obaofwwe went head-to-head at #NXTNorthCharleston. 😤 pic.twitter.com/5O3Ces5731
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT)
Dominik Mysterio’s Uncertain Alliances Open Door for Femi
Dominik Mysterio’s momentum appears solid, but signs of friction within The Judgment Day might provide a strategic opening for Oba Femi to make his mark. A plausible storyline involves Femi interrupting Mysterio’s match against Rusev, defeating the Bulgarian Brute, and setting his sights on Dirty Dom with renewed intensity.
The feud could initially tilt in Mysterio’s favor through interference by The Judgment Day, but their faction’s actions may backfire when JD McDonagh is targeted, provoking Finn Balor’s anger. This tension spurs further confrontations, as Rusev reenters the fray, interrupting matches and igniting a violent three-way dispute.
To resolve the conflicts, Adam Pearce could schedule a Triple-Threat Steel Cage match at Survivor Series, featuring Femi, Mysterio, and Rusev. Given Femi’s demonstrated dominance, he would be a credible winner, accelerating his rise while deepening the intrigue among The Judgment Day members.
Gunther and Oba Femi: A Clash for Respect and Supremacy
Although Gunther’s return to WWE means he is unlikely to lose early, a prolonged rivalry with Oba Femi could provide one of the most intense storylines for both wrestlers. As Gunther pursues the World Title, he may declare that no contender currently challenges him adequately, prompting Femi, known as The Ruler in NXT, to step forward for the challenge.
Their initial encounters would likely be fiercely competitive, ending in a draw and escalating to a best-of-seven series. Throughout these bouts, both would display immense skill and resilience, maintaining a stalemate that builds suspense. The final match, an Iron Man contest, could see Femi edge out Gunther after a grueling 60 minutes, marking a major breakthrough.
In a show of sportsmanship, Gunther might acknowledge Femi’s victory with a handshake, symbolizing mutual respect and cementing Femi’s status as a top competitor.
Brock Lesnar’s Next Challenge Could Be Oba Femi
Following his impactful return and victory over John Cena, fans eagerly await Brock Lesnar’s upcoming opponent. Oba Femi’s profile and trajectory align closely with Lesnar’s own past, making a clash between these two giants an exciting prospect. This rivalry could begin with Femi’s debut interview, where Michael Cole dubs him the “Next Big Thing,” provoking Lesnar’s ire.
Lesnar might disrupt Femi’s first match on the main roster, attacking him to initiate a highly physical feud. Their confrontation at Survivor Series could intensify with Paul Heyman’s involvement, initially supporting Lesnar by tormenting Femi ahead of the showdown. However, a dramatic twist might unfold as Heyman switches allegiance, aiding Femi to secure a shock victory.
This unexpected alliance shift would fuel further hostilities between Lesnar and Femi, propelling Oba Femi into prominent main event status.
Oba Femi’s Rapid Pursuit Towards a Championship Opportunity
WWE has the option to fast-track Oba Femi into the title picture, immediately establishing him as a major threat. One storyline possibility involves Femi confronting either Cody Rhodes or Seth Rollins post their Crown Jewel encounter by interrupting and physically dominating them, or even taking out both in consecutive bouts.
Against Seth Rollins, Femi could initially suffer a tainted loss due to interference, keeping Rollins strong while setting up a heated rivalry that culminates at WrestleMania 42, where Femi dethrones Rollins as champion. Alternatively, Femi might earn his title shot by defeating high-profile competitors like Randy Orton or Drew McIntyre first, then face Rhodes in a match that is disrupted by Orton or McIntyre, culminating in a WrestleMania Triple-Threat match which Femi wins.
This approach provides WWE the chance to immediately position Femi as a dominant force on the main roster and a legitimate title contender.
The Importance of Establishing Oba Femi as a Main Roster Powerhouse
Regardless of which opponent WWE chooses for Oba Femi, the ideal strategy focuses on highlighting his dominance and skill to fully justify a swift rise to championship contention. His tenure as NXT Champion proved he can compete with elite talent, and his main roster debut should reflect that trajectory by booking him in significant, physically intense rivalries.
These fantasy matchups illustrate just how pivotal this period is for Femi’s career advancement and how WWE might leverage his talents to invigorate the roster.
Dream Match? 👀
Rusev and @Obaofwwe went head-to-head at #NXTNorthCharleston. 😤 pic.twitter.com/5O3Ces5731
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) September 8, 2025
