Talk of Roman Reigns’ return to WWE programming has intensified, with internal discussions reportedly pointing toward a comeback ahead of SummerSlam. According to a report from WrestleVotes, the mention of Reigns’ name within the company typically signals that plans are actively being developed for his re-emergence.
Reigns has been absent from television since the WWE RAW following WrestleMania 41, where he was attacked by Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker. This assault came just a night after Paul Heyman betrayed him during his championship match, providing the storyline justification for his hiatus. His return is expected to focus on a redemption arc, specifically targeting Rollins.
In a potential twist, speculation suggests Reigns could resurrect his original persona from The Shield as a form of psychological warfare against Rollins. The move would be a direct response to Rollins, who has twice used The Shield’s entrance and attire to play mind games with Reigns—first at the 2022 Royal Rumble and again during their WrestleMania 41 match, which played a role in Reigns losing the title. This potential angle, while unconfirmed, would see Reigns turn his former rival’s own tactics against him.
The anticipated return is aimed for SummerSlam, which is scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on August 2 and 3. In the lead-up to his on-screen absence, Reigns worked a part-time schedule in 2025, which included his first Royal Rumble match appearance in five years and the triple-threat main event at WrestleMania 41 where he was ultimately betrayed by Heyman.
Amid the storyline developments, rumors also circulated in May, originating from the “Last Word” podcast, that WWE’s parent company TKO had requested Reigns restructure his high-value contract due to his limited number of appearances. Despite the part-time schedule, he is still considered one of the company’s biggest stars and a significant driver of revenue.
Alternate ‘Tribal Chief’ monikers are being considered for Roman Reigns upon his impending return.
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) June 26, 2025
(via @WrestleVotes Radio – Backstage Pass) pic.twitter.com/MIjfGB1jMk
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