Who is Roman Reigns?
Roman Reigns, a name that echoes through the world of professional wrestling, has recently been conspicuously absent from WWE events. Fans worldwide have been left wondering why one of their beloved superstars has taken an unexplained break. In this article, we will delve into the enigmatic reasons behind Roman Reigns’ absence, using clear and accessible language.
The Man Behind the Moniker
Roman Reigns is not just a wrestler; he’s a legend in the making. Born Leati Joseph Anoa’i on May 25, 1985, in Pensacola, Florida, Roman hails from the prestigious Anoa’i wrestling dynasty. His lineage includes iconic figures such as his father, Sika Anoa’i, his uncle, Afa Anoa’i, and his cousins, The Usos and the late Yokozuna.
Before gracing the wrestling ring, Roman Reigns ventured into American football. He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and even had a brief stint with the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings in 2007. However, his football dreams were short-lived, and he moved on to the Canadian Football League’s Edmonton Eskimos before joining the Jacksonville Jaguars. Unfortunately, the Jaguars released him before the 2010 NFL season.
In 2010, Roman Reigns transitioned to professional wrestling by signing with WWE. His journey began in WWE’s developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), under the ring name “Leakee.” His innate talent quickly garnered attention, leading to his promotion to WWE’s main roster in 2012.
Roman Reigns achieved superstardom as part of “The Shield,” a renowned wrestling faction alongside Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose. Together, they clinched the WWE Tag Team Championship multiple times. In 2014, Roman embarked on a remarkable singles career, securing the WWE World Heavyweight Championship multiple times. His charisma, athleticism, and in-ring prowess have solidified his status as a wrestling icon.
Beyond his wrestling exploits, Roman Reigns is celebrated for his inspirational journey, particularly his public battle with leukemia in 2018. His triumphant return to WWE after defeating this life-threatening illness only added to his legend.
Health Battles and Triumphs
One of the most significant reasons for Roman Reigns’ recent absence from WWE is his health. In October 2018, he sent shockwaves through the wrestling world by disclosing his battle with leukemia, a form of blood cancer. This revelation forced Roman to put his wrestling career on hold to focus on his well-being.
During his courageous fight against leukemia, Roman Reigns exhibited remarkable strength and resilience. After enduring months of treatment, the world received heartwarming news in February 2019—Roman was in remission and poised for a wrestling comeback.
The Pandemic Plays a Part
Just when anticipation was building for Roman Reigns’ return, a new challenge emerged—the COVID-19 pandemic. Roman, having battled leukemia, had a compromised immune system, making him more susceptible to the virus. Faced with this increased risk, he made the difficult decision to step away from WWE in March 2020. Though tough, this choice was undeniably the right one. In a world gripped by uncertainty, Roman prioritized health above all else.
Family Matters
Another crucial factor influencing Roman Reigns’ decision to take a hiatus from wrestling is his family. The life of a professional wrestler is not only physically demanding but also demands extensive time away from home. Roman, a devoted father and husband, places his family’s well-being above all else.
In a May 2020 interview with Sports Illustrated, Roman Reigns emphasized the importance of family in his life. He expressed gratitude for the additional time he could spend with his wife and children during his WWE hiatus.
What WWE Did to Keep Wrestlers Safe
WWE took the health and safety of its wrestlers seriously during the pandemic. They implemented stringent testing protocols, restricted audience attendance, and enforced social distancing measures. Despite these precautions, Roman Reigns opted to remain on the sidelines to minimize potential health risks. This decision underlined his unwavering commitment to safeguarding his health and that of his family and fans.
A Responsible Decision
In the end, Roman Reigns’ absence from WWE reflects his responsible approach to life. He faced a life-threatening illness head-on and emerged victorious. When confronted with a global pandemic, he made the difficult yet necessary choice to prioritize his health and family.
As fans eagerly await Roman Reigns’ return to the WWE, it’s essential to remember that even our favorite wrestling superstars face challenges and responsibilities beyond the ring. Roman Reigns’ story serves as a poignant reminder that health should always be a top priority, regardless of one’s stature or profession.
In the world of professional wrestling, Roman Reigns is not just a superstar; he’s a role model. His absence underscores his unwavering commitment to safety and well-being, deserving of our respect and understanding. Let’s collectively wish Roman Reigns well and anticipate the day he makes his triumphant return to the WWE.
FAQ
- Who ended Roman Reigns’ reign as WWE Universal Champion? Roman Reigns’ reign as WWE Universal Champion was ended by Brock Lesnar.
- How old is Roman Reigns now? Roman Reigns was born on May 25, 1985, making him 38 years old.
- How much does Roman Reigns earn? Roman Reigns reportedly has an annual salary of $5 million with WWE, ranking him among the top-paid stars in the company, behind John Cena and Brock Lesnar, who are part-timers.
- Who is Roman Reigns married to? Roman Reigns is married to Galina Becker, and they have a family together, sharing many years of love and companionship.
