The WWE Universe has eagerly awaited Roman Reigns’ return ever since his defeat at the Men’s WarGames Match during WWE Survivor Series 2025, an event that saw Brock Lesnar and The Vision emerge victorious. As the Royal Rumble 2026 draws closer, speculation has intensified around Roman Reigns WWE return plans, especially with WrestleMania 42 set for April.
WWE is rumored to have major storylines lined up for Reigns, aimed at placing him back in the center of the action. As the road to WrestleMania 42 begins, here are six possible directions Roman Reigns’ comeback could take.
Rekindling the Feud with The Vision
Following his loss to The Vision at Survivor Series 2025, Roman Reigns’ rivalry with the faction remains unresolved. This stable, led by his former Wiseman, Paul Heyman, has deep ties to Reigns dating back to their shocking fallout after WrestleMania 41. On his return, Reigns could systematically target each member of The Vision, culminating in a high-stakes clash against Heyman himself to settle past betrayals.
Pursuing Retribution Against Brock Lesnar
With Brock Lesnar instrumental in his team’s victory over Reigns at Survivor Series, another possible storyline could see Reigns focus on seeking revenge against “The Beast Incarnate.” Their storied history makes a renewed feud timely and compelling, with both men looking to prove supremacy on WWE’s biggest stage.
Regaining Ground Against Former Allies
The aftermath of Survivor Series saw Reigns turn away from The Usos, who were once among his closest supporters. WWE may set up a dramatic showdown in which Reigns faces off against his former tag team partners, intensifying an emotional narrative rooted in betrayal and fractured loyalties within his own stable.
Chasing the WWE Championship Once More
With the WWE Championship landscape constantly shifting, Roman Reigns could set his sights on regaining the title. This storyline would have Reigns challenge whoever holds the championship by the time of his return, adding high anticipation for a potential title clash at WrestleMania 42.
Stepping Into the Royal Rumble Spotlight
Royal Rumble 2026 presents an ideal opportunity for Reigns to make a surprise comeback, possibly as an unannounced entrant. This move would position him for an immediate shot at main-event status at WrestleMania, mirroring iconic returns from WWE’s history.
Joining Forces for a Major WWE Alliance
Alternatively, Roman Reigns may return by forming a new alliance or strengthening ties with other key WWE stars such as Cody Rhodes or CM Punk. Aligning with former rivals or top contenders would shake up the current factions and inject fresh intrigue into the storylines leading up to WrestleMania.
Fans and insiders are closely watching for Roman Reigns’ return, with expectations high for dramatic twists and memorable moments. As the path to WrestleMania 42 unfolds, his involvement is poised to impact not only his own legacy but also the direction of WWE’s ongoing stories and rivalries. WrestleMania season promises excitement surrounding the return of one of WWE’s biggest names—and the eventual fallout among stars like Paul Heyman, Brock Lesnar, The Usos, and others in the mix.
