Why WWE Should Avoid Roman Reigns vs. Oba Femi at WrestleMania 43
Analyzing the potential pitfalls of this high-profile wrestling matchup.
1The proposed main event
WWE's creative team is reportedly considering Roman Reigns vs. Oba Femi as a marquee matchup for WrestleMania 43. Reigns, the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, would face rising star Oba Femi in what could be a passing-of-the-torch moment. However, this potential matchup raises several creative concerns that warrant examination before finalizing the WrestleMania card.
2Timing concerns for Femi
Oba Femi only recently debuted on WWE's main roster after a successful NXT run. While he shows promise, pushing him into a WrestleMania main event this early risks overwhelming the newcomer. Historically, WWE has preferred to build new stars gradually through mid-card feuds before major title opportunities. This accelerated timeline could backfire if audiences don't fully invest in Femi's rapid ascent.
3Reigns' current storyline value
Roman Reigns is in the midst of a historic championship reign that has defined WWE programming for years. His matches are reserved for premium events against established stars. Using one of his limited appearances against a relatively unknown quantity like Femi could be seen as wasting Reigns' drawing power when other compelling opponents exist on the roster.
4Audience investment factor
WrestleMania matches require significant fan anticipation to maximize ticket sales and viewership. A Reigns-Femi matchup currently lacks the built-in emotional stakes that typically drive WrestleMania main events. Without existing rivalry or sufficient time to develop one, the match risks feeling like a corporate-mandated pairing rather than organic storytelling.
5Alternative opponents available
The WWE roster currently features several established stars who could provide Reigns with more compelling WrestleMania opponents. Names like Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, or even a returning superstar would offer immediate name recognition and pre-existing storylines that could generate more fan excitement than an untested matchup with Femi.
6Long-term booking implications
If Femi loses decisively to Reigns, it could stall his momentum early in his main roster run. Conversely, having him defeat Reigns prematurely might undermine years of careful booking that established Reigns as WWE's top star. Either outcome presents creative challenges that could have lasting effects on both performers' trajectories.
7Historical precedent
WWE has previously experimented with pushing new talent too quickly in WrestleMania main events, with mixed results. While some accelerated pushes succeeded (like Brock Lesnar's early push), others failed to connect (like Jack Swagger's rushed championship run). This history suggests caution when considering fast-tracking Femi to this level.
8Better alternatives for Femi
A more strategic approach would position Femi in a high-profile mid-card match at WrestleMania, allowing him to showcase his skills without the pressure of carrying the main event. This could involve an Intercontinental or United States Championship match, or a featured tag team bout, providing a better platform for his continued development before eventual main event status.