Vince McMahon intervened to remove offensive WWE script lines targeting Roman Reigns’ cancer diagnosis, preventing the company from exploiting the wrestler’s personal health challenges. This took place in 2018 following Reigns’ public announcement that his chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) had returned, forcing him off TV to focus on treatment.
How WWE Planned to Use Roman Reigns’ Health Struggles in Storylines
During his career, Roman Reigns, whose real name is Joe Anoa’i, has confronted cancer twice, with the second occurrence revealing itself in 2018. After disclosing the return of his leukemia on live television, Reigns stepped away from the WWE Universal Championship to concentrate on his health. However, WWE writers sought to capitalize on his diagnosis by creating antagonistic promos aimed at his rivals, especially Baron Corbin, who was scripted to insult Reigns over his illness.
Baron Corbin, who later adopted the ring name Bishop Dyer following his WWE release, consistently followed WWE’s directions but was unwilling to deliver these distasteful lines. Concerned about the sensitivity of the content and its impact on Reigns, Dyer sought assistance from Vince McMahon himself to address the issue.
Bishop Dyer Credits Vince McMahon for Protecting Roman Reigns’ Dignity
Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Bishop Dyer disclosed that WWE prepared a promo for him that would have disparaged Roman Reigns’ cancer battle. Dyer quickly realized the severity of the script and wanted to confirm whether Reigns was aware and had approved the content. When told Reigns had no knowledge, Dyer refused to proceed without consent.
“It’s like taking shots at him about having cancer and I was like ‘Okay time out, does Joe [Roman Reigns] 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.’ And he’s like ‘Yeah, we’re not going to say that,’ and he changed it,” Bishop Dyer recounted.
With Vince McMahon’s intervention, WWE removed the offensive material, allowing the company to avoid public backlash and further distress to Reigns during his difficult time. This decision marked a rare moment of protection for a wrestler’s private battle in a business that often blurs the lines between personal lives and entertainment storylines.
Roman Reigns’ Return and Ongoing Legacy in WWE
Roman Reigns returned to WWE television in early 2019, announcing that he was in remission. Since then, he has maintained a prominent role in WWE programming, openly discussing his fight with leukemia and inspiring many fans with his perseverance. His openness about his struggles has added a deeper, more human dimension to his public image beyond wrestling.
Bishop Dyer’s WWE contract concluded late last year, and the promotion chose not to renew it. He reflected on how many fans mistakenly assumed the controversial promos he delivered reflected his personal views, when in fact they were directives from WWE’s creative team. His stance against disparaging Reigns’ health was a clear boundary he refused to cross, even amid pressures.
Significance of McMahon’s Decision on WWE Culture and Future Storylines
The intervention by Vince McMahon in stopping WWE from scripting abuse of Roman Reigns’ cancer diagnosis reveals tensions within the company over respecting wrestlers’ real-life challenges. It highlights how creative decisions in wrestling can sometimes overstep personal boundaries. This incident sets a precedent for handling sensitive matters involving performers’ health with greater care and respect.
As Roman Reigns continues his career and Buckskin Dyer moves forward post-WWE, the episode remains a reminder of the ethical considerations necessary in sports entertainment. WWE’s greater awareness going forward can benefit both talent and audience by fostering an environment that acknowledges humanity behind the characters.
