A member of the Bloodline in real life has suggested that backstage politics may have influenced Solo Sikoa’s United States Title loss to Sami Zayn. This loss occurred on WWE SmackDown shortly before the Clash in Paris event, where Zayn, a former member of the same Bloodline faction, captured the title from Sikoa.
Rikishi Points to Backstage Issues Behind Solo Sikoa’s Title Defeat
Solo Sikoa was gaining momentum as the United States Champion and leader of the MFT stable after winning the title from Jacob Fatu. His position within WWE seemed strong until Sami Zayn arrived on SmackDown and took the championship from him. However, this outcome upset Rikishi, Sikoa’s father and a WWE Hall of Famer, who expressed frustration over the situation on his podcast.
Rikishi questioned the company’s commitment to Sikoa’s run as champion, implying that backstage decisions took precedence over talent and merit. He emphasized that the backstage environment had become the main factor in title changes, rather than in-ring ability or storylines. In his own words,
“You know I’m always going to stand on business for my family. But did we really, really give Solo something? Like, I mean okay, when he won the strap. Okay, what do we do? What did the booking committee do? What did the company do? At the end of the day, it is what it is. I guess at this moment here, the only real going thing is in the back. It ain’t about the talent anymore. I don’t think. If you try to question the Samoan dynasty, can they work? You can answer that yourself. There’s a reason they put a strap on a person. I don’t know maybe that person is the right, the good for business to carry the belt. I don’t know.”
— Rikishi, WWE Hall of Famer
Solo Sikoa’s Role in WWE and the Bloodline Storyline
Solo Sikoa has been a significant figure in WWE’s storytelling as the leader of the MFT stable and a rising star within the SmackDown brand. His journey as United States Champion followed his victory over Jacob Fatu, adding to his growing reputation. Yet, the sudden title change to Sami Zayn, a former Bloodline member himself, has raised concerns about the factors leading to this booking decision.
Rikishi’s comments suggest that the company’s internal decisions and backstage politics may have overshadowed what appeared to be a strong title run for Sikoa. This situation highlights ongoing tensions within WWE regarding talent management and creative directions, especially involving members of the Samoan dynasty.
What Lies Ahead for Solo Sikoa and the MFT
Following the title loss, Solo Sikoa has hinted at expanding his MFT group, signaling that changes in his faction and character development are forthcoming. While the backstage uncertainties remain unclear, his potential push within WWE’s ranks continues to be a topic of interest among fans and insiders.
The outcome of this situation could influence how WWE balances backstage dynamics with storytelling and talent progression moving forward, especially as Solo Sikoa’s position within the company evolves.
