WWE Royal Rumble 2021: 5 reasons why Kevin Owens replaced Adam Pearce against Roman Reigns

#2 A major return or plot twist to help Roman Reigns

The head of the table

Given that Roman Reigns won the last two meetings that he had with Kevin Owens, there isn't much of an incentive to rebook the match. While WWE may want to conclude it, it hasn't been the most memorable feud either.

This match could be perfect to set up a return that favors Roman Reigns and helps him to retain.

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#1 Shinsuke Nakamura will likely challenge Roman Reigns post-Royal Rumble

Shinsuke Nakamura after beating Jey Uso

Shinsuke Nakamura should be the de-facto No.1 Contender for Roman Reigns, but he isn't. He defeated Jey Uso on SmackDown, and given the way he was positioned in the last few episodes, it seems clear that he is being groomed for a big match against Roman Reigns.

It's likely going to be a mid-WrestleMania season PPV match, with Elimination Chamber a huge possibility. He won't be expected to win the Universal title from Roman Reigns either, but he could make for a good challenger as he has before.