WWE Rumors: Reigns vs Rhodes Set for Bad Blood Main Event; 3-Hour SmackDown, Hikuleo Debuts in NXT
The latest news from the WWE Universe is here, and there are some exciting developments on the horizon. Let’s dive into the reported plans for the upcoming Bad Blood event, potential changes to SmackDown, and the debut of a new star in NXT.
Reported Plans for WWE Bad Blood Main Event
The WWE Universe is abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming Bad Blood premium live event on October 5th. While fans are eagerly awaiting the Hell in a Cell match between CM Punk and Drew McIntyre, rumors are swirling about a potential main event change.
According to reports from Fightful Select, internal WWE plans dating back to last week have the tag team match between Roman Reigns and WWE Champion Cody Rhodes facing off against Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu slated as the Bad Blood main event. With Reigns and Rhodes being two of WWE’s biggest stars and draws, it’s no surprise that they could headline the event.
Reigns, who has been a dominant force in WWE, will be making his first appearance since WrestleMania 40 in April. The added element of Reigns and Rhodes teaming up after being bitter rivals in the past adds to the intrigue of the main event. Additionally, Reigns’ quest to regain control of The Bloodline only adds to the excitement surrounding the match.
While the Punk vs. McIntyre feud has been captivating fans for months, there are strong arguments for Reigns and Rhodes to take the main event spot at Bad Blood. Both superstars have deep ties to Georgia, where the event is taking place, and are sure to receive massive reactions from the hometown crowd.
WWE, USA Reportedly Discussing 3-Hour SmackDown
In other news, WWE and USA Network are reportedly in talks to potentially expand SmackDown to a three-hour show. With the recent move of SmackDown from Fox to USA Network, discussions are underway about the possibility of adding an extra hour to the show.
According to reports from Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE and USA are negotiating a larger contract in exchange for the extended runtime. While nothing has been finalized yet, there is a “better than 50 percent” chance of the change happening.
The move to a three-hour format for SmackDown would align it with Raw, which is set to return to a three-hour show once it moves to Netflix in January. While some fans may have reservations about a longer show, the leadership of Triple H has helped make Raw more engaging in recent years. The addition of another hour to SmackDown could provide more screen time for top stars like Reigns and Rhodes, potentially boosting ratings.
Hikuleo Reportedly Ticketed for NXT
Former New Japan Pro-Wrestling star Hikuleo is rumored to be making his debut in WWE, but not on the main roster. Reports suggest that Hikuleo is being listed internally by WWE on the NXT roster, signaling that he will likely start his WWE career in NXT.
Hikuleo, who is the brother of Bloodline members Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, has yet to make his debut in WWE despite leaving NJPW. While fans have speculated that his debut would involve The Bloodline, his placement on the NXT roster indicates that he may spend some time in the developmental brand first.
As NXT prepares to move to The CW next month, adding a talent like Hikuleo could provide a significant boost to the brand. With his size and athleticism, Hikuleo could be a formidable challenger for the North American Championship currently held by Oba Femi.
While the specifics of Hikuleo’s debut and future plans remain unclear, his presence in NXT could shake up the landscape of the brand and provide fans with some exciting matchups in the future.
Stay tuned for more updates from the WWE Universe as these rumors continue to unfold.