WWE News & Rumor Roundup – Original winner of WWE title match revealed, Roman Reigns' announcement, Top star legitimately injured (January 1st, 2022)

#4. Roman Reigns issues statement on missing WWE Day 1

WWE received the worst news possible in the hours leading up to Day 1 as Roman Reigns announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19.

The Tribal Chief took to Twitter and informed fans that he'd be unavailable to perform at Day 1 due to the COVID-19 protocols.

Roman Reigns posted the following:

Roman Reigns' Universal Championship match against Brock Lesnar was expected to headline Day 1 as WWE officials were cautious about protecting the high-stakes bout over the past few days.

As seen at Day 1, WWE flipped the script and booked Brock Lesnar in the WWE Championship match. The Beast Incarnate pinned Big E to begin his sixth WWE title reign, and reactions to his victory have been incredible.

Roman Reigns should be back on TV once he's cleared to return, and in the meantime, it'd be interesting to see how WWE uses Brock Lesnar. We'll keep you updated on Reigns' status and his eventual rematch with the new WWE Champion.

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#3. Backstage News on Drew McIntyre's injury and WWE status

Drew McIntyre was written off TV via a backstage attack at Day 1. PWInsider and Fightful confirmed that the angle was booked to cover up news of McIntyre's legitimate injury.

Mike Johnson reported that Drew McIntyre has been dealing with neck issues for several weeks. The two-time WWE Champion will undergo medical testing soon to get a proper diagnosis of his injury.

Sean Ross Sapp noted that WWE hopes McIntyre isn't seriously injured and can make a quick return to in-ring action. A timeline has not been provided for McIntyre's comeback as he is yet to get checked by the doctors.

McIntyre picked up a singles win over Madcap Moss at Day 1, and the RAW superstar was assaulted by Moss and Happy Corbin later in the evening. The promotion even issued a storyline injury update on the former world champion's status.

Drew McIntyre's possible absence is bad news for WWE as it approaches a crucial period. Sportskeeda Wrestling wishes The Scottish Warrior a speedy recovery and hopes to see him back sooner rather than later.