WWE Rumor Roundup - Royal Rumble winner revealed? Uncertainty over Drew McIntyre's neck injury, talents depressed after major release (January 7th, 2022)

#2. Update on Samoa Joe's future after WWE release

Samoa Joe's second WWE release was reportedly expected to happen after William Regal's exit, but what's next for the Samoan Submission Machine?

Fightful spoke to multiple sources, and the belief is that Samoa Joe will return to the ring outside WWE. He has not wrestled since he relinquished the NXT title and transitioned to a backstage role in WWE.

As expected, the reason cited for Joe's release was WWE's move to 'dismantle' Triple H's vision for NXT that kickstarted in 2013. A high-ranking WWE official revealed that Samoa Joe handled his second release very professionally despite his contentious history with the company.

Interestingly enough, four indie promoters have already expressed their desire to book Samoa Joe, and he could be back in the ring later this year. No details were provided regarding his possible non-compete clause, but the good news is that he intends to resume his in-ring career.

Which promotion do you think Samoa Joe joins as an active in-ring performer?

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#1. WWE's plan for Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar

Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar are both world champions and are currently scheduled to defend their respective titles against different opponents at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view.

However, they are expected to cross paths again at WrestleMania 38 eventually. Dave Meltzer has revealed that Roman Reigns vs. Brock Lesnar is still the top match for WrestleMania despite recent storyline alterations.

Reigns and Lesnar's Day 1 match was pulled after the Universal Champion tested positive for COVID-19. However, as mentioned previously, WWE will attempt to get back to its original WrestleMania plans.

"The belief is that Reigns vs. Lesnar, the match that was to headline the WWE's first Day 1 show at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, is still on top as the main match for the 2022 WrestleMania," reported Dave Meltzer.

What are your predictions as we approach the road to WrestleMania 38? Share your views in the comments section.