Roman Reigns’ long fight with cancer has been a significant part of his life since his diagnosis with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in 2007, at just 22 years old. His battle with this rare blood cancer interrupted his football and wrestling careers, but he managed to return stronger after successful treatments. The focus on Roman Reigns cancer battle WWE remains a sensitive topic within the wrestling community.
On October 22, 2018, during Monday Night Raw, it was made public by the WWE that Roman Reigns’ leukemia had returned after 11 years of remission. As a result, he relinquished the WWE Universal Championship and stepped away from the ring to undergo rigorous chemotherapy and treatment. After four months, Reigns returned in February 2019, announcing his cancer was back in remission and resumed competing at a high level, often using his platform to inspire others by sharing his health journey.
Against this backdrop, former WWE United States Champion Baron Corbin revealed details during a recent Busted Open Radio podcast about a planned WWE promo that he found deeply inappropriate. On the night Roman Reigns disclosed his cancer’s return, WWE had scripted a segment instructing Corbin to insult Reigns by referencing his illness. Corbin rejected the idea, feeling it was wrong to capitalize on such a personal and difficult experience for entertainment.
Corbin’s Decision to Challenge WWE’s Promo Direction
Baron Corbin took a firm stand by refusing to deliver the cancer-related insults as part of the scripted WWE promo. He questioned whether Roman Reigns or another wrestler named Joe were aware of the content, learning they had not been informed. Corbin insisted that he would not proceed without approval from those affected. When he brought his concerns to WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, McMahon sided with Corbin and agreed to pull the promo.
“It’s like taking shots at him about having cancer, and I was like, ‘Okay, time out. Does Roman or Joe know that this is the promo?’ And they were like, ‘No, I don’t think so.’ And I said, ‘I’m not saying this unless he tells me it’s cool to say,’ and he was already gone… So I took it to Vince [McMahon], and I was like, ‘Hey man, this is what they want me to say,’ he’s like, ‘Yeah, we’re not going to say that,’ and he changed it.” —Baron Corbin
Corbin’s refusal highlighted an ethical boundary in WWE’s creative approach, emphasizing respect over controversy when it comes to personal struggles like Roman Reigns’ cancer battle. The incident revealed internal discussions around handling sensitive subject matter thoughtfully within scripted storylines.
Baron Corbin’s Departure and Current Wrestling Career
Baron Corbin was released from WWE in November 2024, with reports suggesting the decision followed creative disagreements and a lack of character advancement during his tenure. Despite leaving WWE, Corbin remains active in professional wrestling under the ring name Bishop Dyer. He now competes for Major League Wrestling (MLW) and independent promotions, continuing to pursue his career on his own terms.
Tense Atmosphere around Wrestling Industry Updates
The wrestling world has seen various developments recently, including roster changes and ring returns that signal shifting dynamics behind the scenes. For example, WWE’s locker room grew with the addition of a new star following AJ Lee’s unexpected comeback, adding to the evolving scene championed by executives like Triple H.
Meanwhile, Chris Jericho addressed rumors about potentially returning to WWE, while affirming his ongoing involvement with AEW. Additionally, AEW figures such as MJF and Alicia Atout celebrated personal milestones with their recent marriage, highlighting life beyond the ring.
Other notable updates include Mick Foley sharing a more optimistic health status than initially expected and Jon Moxley preparing for his first-ever brutal match at an upcoming AEW All Out event. These stories, combined with significant reactions to AJ Lee’s WWE return, showcase an industry in flux, marked by both triumphs and challenges.
Impact of Ethical Decisions Within Wrestling Storylines
Baron Corbin’s rejection of the cancer-related promo exemplifies the wrestling industry’s ongoing struggle to balance dramatic storytelling with respect for personal hardship. His choice not to exploit Roman Reigns’ health status underscores the importance of sensitivity in how real-life issues are integrated into wrestling narratives.
As WWE and other wrestling organizations continue to navigate creative direction during a time of heightened scrutiny and evolving audience expectations, such decisions may influence how storylines are crafted to avoid controversy and maintain dignity for performers facing difficult personal battles. The incident may also encourage greater awareness among management and talent about the ethical lines in entertainment.
