Oba Femi’s main roster push in WWE has sparked a divided response among fans and insiders, especially following his recent appearance that spotlighted his potential as the company’s next top contender. The discussion around Oba Femi WWE main roster prospects intensified after his performance on the blue brand, leaving many to wonder about his trajectory and readiness for a major spotlight.
WWE Showcases Rising Talent on Big Stage
Former WWE manager Dutch Mantell shared his perspective on the 27-year-old star’s debut, acknowledging Femi’s physical presence and marketability, but also expressing reservations about his in-ring impact and development. As WWE sought to elevate younger talent during John Cena’s farewell event, Femi’s match against Cody Rhodes provided a major stage for the NXT Champion to prove himself. Cena’s departing show was specifically designed to feature new participants, creating opportunities for NXT stars like Femi to step into the spotlight.
The matchup saw Oba Femi, introduced as NXT Champion, taking on the accomplished Cody Rhodes in a singles contest with high expectations from both the audience and company executives. The wrestling veteran Mantell commented on Femi’s presentation and potential, explaining his initial impressions after watching “The Ruler” compete against Cody.
“Well, he has the look. I think he has the interview if they give him some good stuff,”
Mantell said.
“Okay, my first look at him talking, the jury is still out on my opinion of him. I’ve seen the name, but I haven’t seen him work that much. I saw a little bit of what he did in the match, but there’s nothing that I can say that jumped out at me.”
– Dutch Mantell, Former WWE Manager (Story Time with Dutch Mantell, transcription courtesy of Sportskeeda)
Main Event Appearance and Aftermath
During the December 13th edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event, fans watched as Oba Femi demonstrated his strength against Cody Rhodes. The two champions, each holding major titles in NXT and WWE, delivered a hard-fought match that drew attention across the brand’s audience. Despite neither man securing a victory—due to interference from Drew McIntyre, which interrupted the bout—Oba Femi left a powerful impression on viewers and analysts alike.
The anticipation around Femi’s arrival on the main roster grew following WWE’s broadcast of a new highlight package for the young star during SmackDown. The vignette fueled further speculation that Oba Femi could soon become a fixture on the blue brand, solidifying his role in WWE’s evolving landscape.
Future Implications for WWE and Oba Femi
While there is no definitive conclusion about Femi’s readiness for consistent main roster action, the conversation underscores WWE’s commitment to developing new stars from NXT and providing them with high-profile opportunities. The organization aims to refresh its roster by bringing up dynamic competitors, and Femi’s presence alongside key WWE figures like Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre, and others signals the company’s willingness to experiment with fresh rivalries and talent.
The mixed reactions to Oba Femi’s performance suggest that his journey is only beginning, with further appearances likely to shape both his popularity and his place within the larger WWE universe. Observers will continue to assess how his character, athletic ability, and storytelling skills evolve as he takes on more prominent roles in major WWE events.
THIS OBA FEMI TEASER 👀
HE IS DEFINITELY MAIN ROSTER BOUND SOON 🔥#Smackdown
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) December 27, 2025
