The Epic Rise of Roman Reigns to WWE Stardom

The Rise of Roman Reigns in WWE

Roman Reigns has become one of the top stars in WWE over the past decade. With his imposing physique, intense persona, and top-level athleticism, Reigns has captured the imagination of the WWE Universe. He's played both a heroic fan favorite and a domineering heel character, showing immense range as a performer. Let's take a look at the rise of this mainstream star in professional wrestling.

Early Days and The Shield

Reigns, real name Leati Joseph “Joe” Anoaʻi, comes from the legendary Anoaʻi wrestling family. He first joined WWE’s developmental brand Florida Championship Wrestling in 2010, learning the craft of sports entertainment. There he formed close friendships with fellow future stars Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose.

These three fresh talents would later align as The Shield in late 2012, introducing themselves through crowd invasions and brutal beatdowns. Though presented as villains, the group's cool factor and in-ring dominance made them antiheroes in fans' eyes. Reigns stood out for his quiet intensity and explosive moveset.

Breakout Star Power

As The Shield disbanded in mid 2014, Reigns was singled out for single stardom. He competed in high-profile matches, won the 2015 Royal Rumble, and even headlined WrestleMania 31 against Brock Lesnar. Though his underdog challenger Seth Rollins won the title that night, Reigns established himself as a main event player.

Over the next few years Reigns feuded with stars like Triple H, Braun Strowman, and John Cena. Though fan reactions wavered at times, his upswing was undeniable. WWE recognized Reigns' power as a box office attraction and made him the face of the company.

Battling Leukemia and Heartfelt Return

In late 2018, Reigns stunned the wrestling world by revealing his real-life battle with leukemia. Relinquishing the Universal Championship, he took time off for treatment. Fans rallied behind him in a massive outpouring of support.

At the February 2019 Raw, Reigns triumphantly announced his cancer was in remission. Given a clean bill of health, he returned to regular matches while fans chanted "welcome back!" It was a feel-good moment as the "Big Dog" scored another win outside the ring.

Villainous Tribal Chief

At 2020's Payback event, Reigns reemerged with a new edge, attacking his Shield brothers and Braun Strowman. Now a domineering Tribe Chief, he called the shots on SmackDown while backed by his "Bloodline" family members.

This heel version of Reigns has proven massively successful. Alongside manager Paul Heyman, he exudes smugness and menace. Lengthy title reigns and brutal beatdowns have cemented him as WWE's alpha villain. Once cheered, Reigns now arrogantly demands fan appreciation he feels he's earned.

Roman Reigns' Legacy

Love him or hate him, Roman Reigns' impact on the modern era of WWE is undeniable. He looks every bit the prototype world champion, withMoved by his personal struggles outside the ring, fans have connected with the character on a deeper level. The best villains have an element of truth – Reigns lives that as wrestling's domineering, self-righteous Tribal Chief.

Still in his athletic prime, Reigns' future seems limitless. Speculation is building of possible crossover stardom outside WWE. But whether staying put or venturing outward, Reigns remains well positioned to further cement his wrestling legacy for years to come.

FAQs

How is Roman Reigns related to The Rock?

Roman Reigns and The Rock are cousins. They both come from the legendary Anoaʻi wrestling family tree that has produced many WWE stars over the years.

Why did Roman Reigns take time off in 2018?

In 2018, Reigns stepped away from WWE after revealing he had been battling leukemia (a form of blood cancer) for 11 years. He went into remission after months of treatment.

When did Roman Reigns make his WWE return?

Reigns made an emotional return to WWE in February 2019, announcing on Raw that his leukemia was in remission after treatment. Fans welcomed him back with cheers and chants.

Is Roman Reigns a good guy or bad guy now?

As the smug Tribal Chief, Reigns currently portrays a villainous character in WWE. He demands respect while acting arrogant and entitled towards fans who once cheered him as a hero.