Roman Reigns has revealed details about his relationship with former WWE chairman Vince McMahon, clarifying how their connection differed from previous top WWE stars. While Reigns became one of McMahon’s primary talents during the mid-2010s, their working relationship was distinct from that of older legends, partly due to their generational gap and changing eras in WWE. This insight sheds light on the complex dynamic between the two figures amid evolving company leadership and Reigns’s rise in wrestling.
Vince McMahon was instrumental in pushing Roman Reigns to the forefront of WWE during a period filled with resistance from fans. Despite the backlash, McMahon backed Reigns heavily, culminating in Reigns’s transformation into the heel “Tribal Chief” character in 2020. This shift made Reigns one of the most dominant and captivating figures in WWE history. However, McMahon’s own career ended abruptly amid controversy, resigning due to a sexual abuse lawsuit that severely damaged his reputation after four decades at WWE‘s helm.
Reigns Was Never as Close to McMahon as Past WWE Icons
In a candid discussion on the podcast “What’s Your Story?” with Stephanie McMahon, Roman Reigns explained why his relationship with Vince McMahon was not as personal or close as other legendary WWE stars enjoyed. He pointed out that he had to quickly adjust to McMahon’s style of business and negotiation, as he was the youngest among McMahon’s top performers and did not benefit from the same extended mentorship that figures like Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin, or The Rock received.
“That’s who I cut my teeth doing business with, negotiating with was your dad, and that’s how I feel, I’m not intimidated by anybody anymore. I had to get used to him, we had to learn each other’s ways but I’m the youngest of all his top guys so I didn’t have that relationship that the other guys were afforded at the time.
—Roman Reigns, WWE Superstar
He elaborated that although he didn’t get as much one-on-one time with McMahon compared to other top stars of previous generations, he absorbed as much wisdom as possible. Reigns admitted the influence McMahon’s teachings still have on his approach today, noting that he has adapted parts of McMahon’s “playbook” into his own style and methods.
“But compared to everyone else, Hogan, Steve, Dwayne, those guys, I don’t think I got as much of his time, but I was picking up as much knowledge as I could. He may not even realise it but there’s still things he told me that I continue to use, I tore completely out of his playbook.”
—Roman Reigns, WWE Superstar
Context Behind Vince McMahon‘s Departure and Its Impact on WWE
Vince McMahon’s departure marked a monumental shift for WWE after four decades of leadership. His exit followed a sexual abuse lawsuit that severely tarnished his legacy and led to his resignation. This upheaval left WWE’s roster and management at a crossroads, with Reigns ascending as the company’s clear top talent during this period of change.
Roman Reigns’s status as WWE’s leading figure now carries greater weight, with fans closely observing how his role evolves under new leadership. His candid reflections on his experience working with McMahon provide a rare glimpse into the backstage realities and pressures that shaped WWE’s modern era.
Broader WWE and Wrestling Updates
Among other notable wrestling developments, Nikki Bella is advocating for a WWE Hall of Famer’s return to the ring after a three-year absence, underscoring the ongoing interest in blending WWE’s rich history with current storylines.
John Cena is poised for a highly anticipated match against Logan Paul at Clash in Paris on August 31, 2025, generating excitement and anticipation among fans worldwide.
Additionally, a star expected to debut in WWE has reportedly departed from their current promotion following a lost title reign, signaling potential roster changes. Meanwhile, an ex-WWE wrestler who faced sexual assault allegations but was cleared after investigation has publicly addressed his dismissal.
Outside WWE, a former AEW World Champion recently underwent successful surgery, and MVP revealed plans involving an AEW star joining the Hurt Syndicate, highlighting dynamic shifts in the wrestling landscape.
WWE has encountered backlash after a controversial promo by Becky Lynch on Raw, which triggered mixed reactions from the audience and media. Similarly, Rob Van Dam later clarified his unpopular comments related to a severe incident involving wrestler Raja Jackson, who was left fighting for his life after an attack.
Significance and Future Outlook
Roman Reigns’s reflections on his experience with Vince McMahon illustrate how personal relationships with leadership can shape a wrestler’s career and public perception. As WWE continues adapting after McMahon’s departure, Reigns remains a central figure whose trajectory will likely influence the company’s direction.
Reigns’s ability to integrate lessons learned from McMahon, even without an intimate bond, highlights his resilience and strategic mindset. Given his prominence, fans and industry insiders will watch closely how Reigns maneuvers within WWE’s evolving environment, potentially setting new standards for leadership both inside and outside the ring.
