What’s the story?
Shortly after Roman Reigns defeated The Undertaker in the main event of WrestleMania 33, ESPN’s Jonathan Coachman caught up with him and asked him what it felt like to win the main event. Reigns said that it was a bittersweet experience and that he had a lot of respect for The Deadman.
The context
The main event between Reigns and ‘Taker was an evenly fought contest with both the Superstars throwing everything at each other. Towards the end of the match, though, Reigns was in total control.
Also read: Best and Worst of WrestleMania 33
Reigns hit the Dead Man repeatedly with a steel chair and followed up the assault with a spear. But his attempt to pin ‘Taker was not successful. After yet another spear and failed pin attempt, Reigns hit ‘Taker with a Superman punch. He then hit one last spear before finally taking the victory.
The heart of the matter
This is what Roman Reigns had to say to Coachman:
“To be honest with you Coach, you know, it’s bittersweet. It almost feels like a loss, you know what I mean? Because I’ve said this for the past three or four weeks, I’ve got nothing but respect for the Undertaker. If you’ve been a part of this business, and you know, everybody’s got respect for that man.
But at the end of the day, you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do. As a young man, as a family man, as a provider, I’ve got to go out there and fight for mine, and that’s what I did tonight.”
Reigns’ comments were very much in line with what he had said in the build up to ‘Mania. He respects the Legend but it didn’t stop him from doing what he had to do. While Reigns has dropped sentimental hints of being against the idea of retiring Undertaker, the WWE top brass wants him to be the face of the company and getting the rub off of The Phenom is the most logical booking decision.
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Author’s take
Reigns’ comments do seem sincere and honest and I respect his virtues but isn’t this the perfect opportunity for him to turn heel? He will get booed more than usual after retiring ‘Taker and the timing could not be more ideal. However, in all probability, it won’t happen and I, personally, feel bad (okay, only a wee little bit) for him.
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