Roman Reigns, known as The Tribal Chief, has shared his profound journey through cancer, first diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) at 22 in 2007. This Roman Reigns cancer battle journey is a story of resilience, marked by remission, a difficult relapse in 2018, and a triumphant return that continues to inspire many.
The Early Fight Against Leukemia and Its Hidden Symptoms
Roman Reigns’ initial diagnosis came after subtle symptoms went unnoticed, though blood tests revealed alarmingly high white blood cell counts and an enlarged spleen. These findings led to the diagnosis of CML, a rare blood cancer. Treatment placed his cancer in remission, allowing him to chase his dreams—first as a football player and later as a dominant WWE star.
In October 2018, during his tenure as WWE Universal Champion, Reigns stunned fans by announcing on live television the return of his leukemia after 11 years. He immediately vacated his championship and paused his wrestling career to undergo rigorous treatment, including oral chemotherapy, determined to regain his health.
Remarkably, just four months later, Roman Reigns re-emerged in WWE, announcing he was back in remission. Since then, he has maintained ongoing medication and committed himself to proactive health management. Beyond his ring persona, he works to inspire others facing cancer, partnering with organizations such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to raise awareness.
The Emotional Toll of Receiving Devastating Cancer News
Opening up on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast, What’s Your Story, Roman Reigns described the emotional weight of his diagnosis and how he struggled to accept the reality of his condition. He revealed the complexity of managing his mindset while balancing intense career pressures.
Roman Reigns said, “I compartmentalized to my mama. Honestly, I mean, that’s when, so I’m at the Minnesota Vikings camp. All that’s like, football is like crescendoing. It’s like, this is it. Like, it’s all boiled up, boiled up to this point. We need to make this team. I mean, it was, all the marbles were in the basket. So I was so full on that, that I don’t think I even accepted the news properly. I don’t even think I took the diagnosis.” —Roman Reigns, WWE Superstar
He explained that his diagnosis came during a routine physical for the Minnesota Vikings football team, where extensive blood work unexpectedly revealed his illness.
“[And they found it because you did a physical?] Yeah, well, with the physical, we did extensive blood work. And it wasn’t even like in the molecular testing room. It was just in the blood lab, like the CBC. My white blood cells were, I think they were like 70,000 at that point. And you, I mean, healthy people, you’re not fighting off any sickness or anything. I think you sit in between like 4,000 and like 10,000, 11,000, something like that.” —Roman Reigns, WWE Superstar
Despite fighting cancer, Reigns described feeling physically well at the time, illustrating how insidious blood cancers can be.
“So I was, my body was fighting something. [And you didn’t feel sick?] No, that’s the thing. It’s because it’s cancer of the blood. Was I a little tired? Probably. But I was also 300 pounds, college guy. You know, we were drinking beer every other day. Doing college stuff and being a football guy. But yeah, it was just one of those situations because I didn’t feel it. I wasn’t going through chemo. I didn’t have to do true radiation.” —Roman Reigns, WWE Superstar
He also reflected on the psychological challenges, including dealing with others’ reactions and the internal mental battle.
“There was a large bit of like what I believe they call imposter syndrome, of people feeling bad for me. And I’m like, don’t feel bad. And you shouldn’t have something because, like there are little children who are going, you know, I’m, thank God I’m lucky enough to take a medication. But I don’t know. I think it was just mental. Absolutely. But it was just a situation, I think. Because I had so much going on in my life, and honestly, it’s always been that way, that I’ve never been able to let it sit on me,” —Roman Reigns, WWE Superstar
Balancing a Wrestling Career and Health Challenges
Throughout his rise to become WWE’s Undisputed Champion, Roman Reigns has taken steps to manage his health, sometimes stepping back from the WWE spotlight. His limited schedule reflects a careful approach to balancing his demanding profession with his condition’s ongoing care.
In addition to his personal fight, Reigns’ openness about his health has helped shed light on leukemia in professional sports. His partnership with leukemia-focused organizations highlights a commitment to using his platform to support others facing similar struggles.
The Impact of Reigns’ Story on Wrestling and Beyond
Roman Reigns’ courage in sharing his cancer battle offers a powerful narrative about resilience and determination. His ability to return to WWE at a high level after intensive treatment inspires many, bridging the worlds of sports, entertainment, and health awareness.
As he continues to compete and serve as a role model, observers will watch to see how his leadership, both in wrestling and advocacy, evolves. His story underscores the importance of early detection, ongoing care, and mental strength in battling cancer.
Roman Reigns’ journey is a compelling example of courage and perseverance, reminding fans and the public that even amid the toughest personal trials, hope and success remain possible.
