Roman Reigns has been absent from WWE television for a while. The OTC was last seen at the RAW after WrestleMania 41, where he was brutally attacked by Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker, which sent him on hiatus.
Some recent reports suggest that the Original Tribal Chief could return near SummerSlam 2025 and compete in his first match after WrestleMania 41.
Reports even suggested Roman Reigns could alter his persona upon his WWE comeback.
How Brock Lesnar ruined another wrestler's career - Watch Now!
In this listicle, we look at three reasons why Reigns should return with his Shield gimmick and retire the “Tribal Chief” persona:
#1. A new direction for Rollins and Roman Reigns
Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins share a history and have been engaged in a long-standing rivalry for years. Lately, Reigns, as Tribal Chief, has been struggling against Rollins since WrestleMania XL.
Their animosity seems never-ending, and they are bound to renew their feud upon Reigns’ return. The OTC embracing his Shield gimmick again would add an interesting angle to the saga between former faction mates. The new direction for rivalry would add an extra layer of excitement.
#2. Tribal Chief's character needs to be saved
The Tribal Chief character of Roman Reigns is one of the most popular and well-received gimmicks of the 40-year-old superstar, which has generated maximum hype and propelled him to mega stardom overnight.
During his dominating four-year reign as champion, the OTC was almost invincible, eliminating every potential threat in front of him. However, now suddenly, after losing his title, if Reigns were to lose in a row, it would affect his “Tribal Chief” character.
Hence, rather than bringing a new persona or wasting “Tribal Chief”, Roman could repackage his OG shield gimmick.
#3. Perfect nostalgia
The WWE universe has been one of the most loyal fan bases in any sport, and its fans have been invested in the product for years.
The Stamford-based promotion often brings back an original superstar or recreates an iconic movement to give fans a memorable, nostalgic ride, which creates massive buzz and draws large crowds.
Roman bringing back his Shield gimmick would be a perfect nostalgic moment for fans, as the OTC would likely go against his Shield brother, Seth Rollins, at SummerSlam 2025.
A top WWE star is missing in action