A new WWE original documentary on Netflix may have revealed the company’s long-term plans for Roman Reigns, suggesting the end of his decade-long run at the top could be approaching. The documentary, titled Unreal, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the company, but Reigns’ minimized presence has become a major point of discussion.
While other top stars involved in WrestleMania 41 like Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, and John Cena received dedicated interviews and segments, Reigns was mostly a background figure. This treatment has led to the belief that WWE is subtly shifting its promotional focus, no longer positioning Reigns as a primary marquee star and instead preparing for his eventual retirement.
This observation aligns with Reigns’ established part-time schedule. For some time, the “Original Tribal Chief” has worked a reduced number of dates, often taking extended breaks after major premium live events. He recently returned from a three-month hiatus just in time for SummerSlam, where he is scheduled for a tag team match, with the expectation that another absence will follow. This pattern reinforces the idea that he is already in the process of winding down his in-ring career.
The company’s creative direction under Triple H further supports this shift, with a clear focus on elevating new talent. The rise of Cody Rhodes serves as the primary example, as he has been booked as the promotion’s top star and was heavily featured as the face of the company in the Unreal documentary—a direct contrast to Reigns’ role.
External factors provide critical context for this potential transition. Reigns’ current WWE contract reportedly runs through WrestleMania 42 in 2026, and he has been open about his intentions to pivot to Hollywood, with a role in the upcoming “Street Fighter” movie already secured. With TKO Group Holdings also evaluating major expenditures, all signs point toward a strategic, gradual phase-out for one of the company’s most dominant modern stars.