Roman Reigns made his long-awaited return at SummerSlam 2024, making a dramatic impact by destroying Solo Sikoa in the main event and helping Cody Rhodes retain his Undisputed WWE title. The crowd’s reaction was explosive, with fans chanting Thank You Roman, following his actions against Solo Sikoa.
Reigns’ stance against Solo suggests that he has returned as a babyface in the Stamford-based promotion. In this article, we will explore three reasons why the Head of the Table has returned as a babyface at SummerSlam 2024.
#3. To initiate a Bloodline Civil War against Solo Sikoa
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One primary reason for Roman Reigns’ return as a babyface at SummerSlam is the anticipated Bloodline Civil War against Solo Sikoa. If the former Universal Champion had returned as a villain, joining forces with Solo would have been the only logical course of action.
However, since WWE is possibly setting up a feud between Solo and Reigns following his return, it was essential for the Tribal Chief to adopt a heroic character. A babyface Roman Reigns is perfectly suited to stand against Sikoa's new Bloodline.
So, this is one of the compelling rationales why the Head of the Table turned into a babyface at SummerSlam 2024.
#2. Roman Reigns is no longer the Undisputed Champion
Reigns lost his Undisputed WWE Championship to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania XL, and Paul Heyman had previously mentioned that Roman's villainous character was tied to his status as Champion.
With the Tribal Chief dropping the title in his last appearance, turning him into a babyface was the only viable option. Had Roman Reigns still been the Undisputed Champion, he likely would have continued with his villainous gimmick in WWE.
#1. To provide fresh storylines for Roman
Another reason for Roman Reigns' return as a babyface at SummerSlam 2024 is that it opens up fresh storylines for the former Undisputed Champion. During his villainous run, the Original Tribal Chief feuded with nearly every top star and secured victories over them.
If Reigns had returned as a heel, WWE might have struggled to create new, compelling storylines for him. By turning babyface, Reigns refreshes the WWE landscape and paves the way for new rivalries, including potential feuds with the new version of the Bloodline.
This shift not only revitalizes his character but also sets the stage for a possible Roman vs. Rock showdown in the future. Additionally, as a babyface, Reigns can now ally with former opponents from his heel run, adding further depth to his character.