5 Potential opponents for Universal Champion Roman Reigns

Roman Reigns is the WWE Universal Champion. Whether you love him or hate him, nothing can dispute that fact.

It'd been over two years since he last held world championship gold, and the Big Dog dethroned Brock Lesnar to claim the title this past Sunday night--bringing an end to the 500+ day reign of the Beast.

In perhaps one of the most electrifying moments of the 2018 calendar year, Reigns slay the Beast Incarnate with a hellacious spear--finally besting the destroyer that is Brock Lesnar. What followed is perhaps one of the most emotional moments in WWE history, as Reigns seemed genuinely relieved--as though a huge 265+ pound weight had been lifted off his shoulders--with the Big Dog basking in the glory at the biggest party of the summer.

In the backstage interview after his big win at SummerSlam, Reigns addressed his happiness at finally capturing the Universal title--one which had eluded him all this time. Furthermore, the professional wrestling community has been set abuzz with speculation as to who shall step up to the plate now, so as to challenge the new Universal Champion.

On that note, the question that now arises is--"Who's next?"

Brock Lesnar has made it pretty clear he intends on returning to UFC, and even if he wasn't, Brock isn't exactly known for being someone who's ready to perform every single week. A new number one contender is needed, and here we have a list of 5 potential opponents to challenge the new Universal champion--

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#5 Dolph Ziggler

Ziggler is cunning as a fox

The now-former Intercontinental Champion, Dolph Ziggler has had something of a career-resurgence over the past year.

Not too long ago, the Zig-Zag man was floundering in the mid-card, occasionally making it to pay per view. However, over the past year, we have seen a heel turn, a United States title win and forfeit, siding with Drew McIntyre, an Intercontinental Title win and headlining the Extreme Rules pay per view.

Having the Show-Off take on Roman Reigns would be a big stamp of approval for Dolph. Also, with his contract status seemingly under constant scrutiny, it would definitely be a plus for WWE, if they do want to keep him around.

And in the (admittedly unlikely) scenario that Dolph would beat the new Universal champion for the belt, it would definitely add a level of prestige to the Intercontinental championship: as a stepping stone to world-title stardom.

#4 Baron Corbin

Constable Corbin is a key authority figure on RAW today

The Constable of Monday Night RAW may be an unlikely choice, but it could make sense. Corbin is supposed to be the hand-picked spokesperson for WWE RAW Commissioner, Stephanie McMahon.

McMahon, like her husband and her father, have had on-screen issues with Roman--what with Reigns having memorably feuded with The Authority over the years.

As Steph's representative, Corbin could curry favor with the boss and book himself in the match, which certainly would lead to some interesting confrontations between The Constable, the Big Dog, and the RAW General Manager, Kurt Angle.

Granted that this may be yet another Reigns vs. Authority angle, however, the inclusion of Corbin into the equation would, beyond the shadow of a doubt, add a new layer of intrigue to this potential storyline.

#3 Finn Bálor

Finn Balor fears nobody

The inaugural Universal Champion, Finn Balor, held the championship for just one day; before having to forfeit the title due to injury.

Since returning, fans have been desperate to see the Demon King return to his throne as Universal Champion, however so far, the Irishman hasn't received many if any opportunities at the red strap.

WWE would have to be careful with the feud if they were to book it. Finn is one of the most universally popular stars on Monday Nights, whilst Roman's response by crowds is mixed, at best. The last thing WWE would want would be to cause Roman to be booed further as he takes on the popular, beloved former NXT Champion.

And speaking of former Universal champions...

#2 Kevin Owens

KO is an incredibly cerebral performer

In 2016, Kevin Owens became the second Universal Championship, defeating Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns and Big Cass, courtesy some help from Triple H.

Owens held the title until February 2017, losing the title to Goldberg. Despite being decimated at Summerslam to Braun Strowman, Owens has maintained his role as an upper-mid-carder.

Having him be the number-one contender for Roman's title would be a decent feud, and we know these two have worked well together in the past. Besides, you simply cannot deny the fact that KO could make any decent performer look like a million bucks inside the squared circle--Such is the ring IQ and character work of the former Universal Champion.

#1 Braun Strowman

Roman Reigns and Braun Strowman are no strangers to one another

It goes without saying that current the Money In The Bank contract-holder, Braun Strowman is the unofficial number one contender. The Monster Among Men has feuded with Roman before, and it could easily happen again.

Now, the question is, how would this feud go? Well, the kick-off is obvious, Strowman cashes in Money In the Bank, possibly as soon as tonight's RAW.

A Strowman Universal title reign would be interesting to see, with the big man still a relatively new face on Monday nights. Also, if Roman was to lose the title so quickly to someone so beloved by the fans, it could be the starting point for that Roman Reigns heel turn so many fans have been waiting for.

Who'd you like the new WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns to feud with? Sound off in the comments!