Speculation is mounting about a Roman Reigns possible WWE return with backup, following his absence after the dramatic events at WrestleMania 41. Former WWE insider Tommy Carlucci fueled these rumors, suggesting that Reigns could reappear alongside new allies amid mounting tension and financial scrutiny within WWE’s ranks.
Unresolved Fallout After WrestleMania 41 Betrayal
At WrestleMania 41, Roman Reigns, also known as the “OTC” and ex-Tribal Chief, suffered a stunning betrayal by Paul Heyman, his long-time Wiseman. Instead of loyalty, Heyman delivered a decisive low blow, aligning himself with Seth Rollins and leaving Reigns reeling. This seismic shift set off new alliances and rivalries on the WWE landscape as Heyman and Rollins quickly consolidated power.
On the next episode of RAW, CM Punk joined Reigns in seeking payback against Rollins and Heyman. However, their revenge was short-lived as Bron Breakker intervened, violently thwarting their efforts and revealing himself as part of Rollins’ emerging faction. The attacks left Reigns sidelined, while Rollins, Heyman, and their group—including new recruits like Bronson Reed—tightened their grip over WWE storylines.
Rumors Swarmling Around Roman Reigns’ Return Strategy
Since the heated fallout, Roman Reigns has remained absent from WWE programming, but behind-the-scenes discussions continue regarding his future moves. Tommy Carlucci, former Senior Director of International Television for WWE, weighed in during an appearance on The Last Word, speculating about the direction of the storyline and whether Reigns will rejoin the fight solo or with reinforcements.
“I don’t know where it’s going. I think it’s going to go for a while with this whole Wiseman thing. And maybe Roman Reigns coming back is going to bring some boys with him and start with The Wiseman. I mean, it’s wide open right now.”
—Tommy Carlucci, Former WWE Senior Director of International Television
Carlucci’s statement echoes widespread fan theory that Reigns, likely seeking both vengeance and restoration of his lost status, could upend the balance of power by returning with a formidable group to challenge Rollins, Heyman, and their expanding circle.
Financial Pressures Add Uncertainty To Reigns’ WWE Future
Amid the chaos in storylines, looming corporate directives from TKO add another layer of tension to Roman Reigns’ comeback prospects. TKO, WWE’s parent organization, has continued aggressive budget cuts, recently parting ways with names such as Carlito, Sonya Deville, and Carmella. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Reigns, despite being a central figure and former Undisputed WWE Champion, is not immune to these cost-saving measures.
Although industry insider Hugo Savinovich of Lucha Libre Online insists that TKO will not release Reigns, he notes that the company wants to renegotiate the wrestler’s lucrative contract, reportedly valued at $15 million annually.
“While they won’t outright release him, he won’t be making $15 million per year anymore…Now, why $15 million? Let me break it down. Roman Reigns’ base salary is $5 million. But then there are add-ons—pay-per-views, video game deals like WWE 2K, promotional appearances, merchandise royalties (he earns 30% on merch, which is huge), and special bonuses like appearances in Saudi Arabia. Plus, he earns a cut from ticket sales. All of this adds up to $15 million a year…. TKO is saying: Roman’s not around full-time. Why are we paying him so much? So, they want to renegotiate.”
—Hugo Savinovich, Lucha Libre Online
This perspective aligns with Carlucci’s earlier prediction that budget constraints could push Reigns into accepting a substantial pay reduction if he wishes to remain a key WWE figure. The uncertainty around his future earnings has added to the charged, uneasy atmosphere around his potential return.
Developments In WWE Spotlight Competing Storylines
While Roman Reigns remains off-screen, the WWE Universe continues to buzz with high-stakes drama involving other major names. Recently, Solo Sikoa expressed his reaction to Jacob Fatu’s unexpected betrayal at WWE Money in the Bank, adding to the turbulent nature of the current landscape. Chris Jericho’s influence endures as another released superstar cited his classic gimmicks as a source of inspiration, showing the ongoing impact of wrestling’s elder statesmen on new talent.
Corporate intrigue also brews, with rumors that TKO may be considering a sale of WWE, though not to longtime figure Vince McMahon. Meanwhile, the next generation solidifies its presence as several sons of WWE Hall of Famers have officially inked deals with the company, and Seth Rollins set a new record with a recent Money in the Bank victory.
Outside the ring, stories such as Cash Wheeler’s successful legal resolution keep the wrestling world on edge, while competitors like CM Punk and Paul Heyman remain tied to ongoing WWE narratives.
What Roman Reigns’ Return Could Mean for WWE
The anticipation over a Roman Reigns possible WWE return with backup continues to escalate as fans and insiders speculate on the star’s next move, especially considering the shifting alliances and TKO’s financial maneuvering. If Reigns resurfaces with his own contingent, the ongoing battle with Rollins, Heyman, and their crew could redefine main-event storylines, influencing the trajectories of key figures like Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, and other rising stars. Meanwhile, questions about his future contract and standing in WWE fuel an atmosphere of suspense and turbulence, leaving the company—and fans—watching closely for what could be a pivotal moment in professional wrestling.
