Roman Reigns' Top 5 Matches: A Look Back at the Tribal Chief's Career
Roman Reigns, the reigning "Tribal Chief" of WWE, has become a dominant force in the wrestling world. From his early days as part of The Shield to his current reign as Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, Reigns' journey has been filled with memorable moments and standout matches. Here are five of the most captivating encounters that showcase the evolution of "The Big Dog" and his ability to deliver captivating performances.
WrestleMania 40 â 7 April 2024
Reigns' most recent appearance in the squared circle saw him face off against Cody Rhodes, culminating in a highly anticipated clash at WrestleMania 40. The "Finish His Story" narrative, though somewhat overplayed, finally reached its climax. The match itself was a captivating display of in-ring prowess from both men, with the emotional intensity reaching a peak during Rhodes' victory. The inclusion of several legends, including The Rock, The Undertaker, and John Cena, further added to the grandeur of the occasion. Ultimately, it was a clash of titans, with Seth Rollins' intervention adding another layer of intrigue to this unforgettable encounter.
WWE SmackDown â 30 April 2021
A true testament to Daniel Bryan (now known as Bryan Danielson) as a performer, this SmackDown encounter stands as a highlight in Reigns' career. This was Bryan's final match in WWE before his departure to All Elite Wrestling, a symbolic moment that provided the perfect platform for a captivating clash. The rivalry between Reigns and Bryan, stemming from their past encounters and intertwined careers, played a central role in elevating this match. With Bryan's career on the line, the stakes were high, resulting in a hard-hitting and emotionally charged match. Despite Reigns emerging victorious, the encounter served as a fitting farewell for Bryan, who has since gone on to redefine his legacy in AEW.
WWE SummerSlam â 20 August 2017
The WWE Universal Championship was the prize in this chaotic four-way match, featuring Roman Reigns, Braun Strowman, Brock Lesnar, and Samoa Joe. The sheer intensity of the action made this encounter a spectacle. The three men immediately focused their attention on Lesnar, aiming to take him out of the equation. This set the stage for a "meatfest" of power moves, with all three combatants delivering their signature moves. Lesnar eventually returned to the fray, keeping the action non-stop. While many anticipated Samoa Joe to claim the title, it was used as another tool to fuel the rivalry between Lesnar and Reigns.
WWE Extreme Rules â 22 May 2016
AJ Styles' WWE career has been marked by his constant proximity to the top but never quite reaching the pinnacle. This clash against Roman Reigns, a pivotal moment in their months-long feud, further highlights this narrative. The match itself was a spectacle of athleticism and technical prowess, showcasing Styles' unique skillset. While Reigns ultimately prevailed, the match stands as a testament to Styles' ability to deliver consistently captivating performances. This encounter took place long before Styles achieved the heights he now occupies in the wrestling world, making it a memorable moment for both performers.
WWE Monday Night Raw â 3 March 2014
This match is special not for its in-ring artistry but for its historical significance. The clash between The Shield and The Wyatt Family, featuring Bray Wyatt and Brodie Lee (formerly known as Luke Harper), was a landmark moment, showcasing a rare instance of WWE giving fans what they wanted. Two factions, both beloved by the audience, were pitted against each other, resulting in a six-man brawl that fulfilled the audience's expectations. The match was a testament to the talent of all six performers, highlighting the raw power and intensity of both factions. It serves as a reminder of the immense talent lost in recent years with the passing of Wyatt and Lee.
Roman Reigns has come a long way since his early days as part of The Shield. These five matches showcase his evolution as a performer, highlighting his ability to deliver captivating performances in various contexts. From intense rivalries to chaotic spectacles, Reigns' matches have consistently left an imprint on the wrestling world, solidifying his status as one of the greatest performers of his generation.
