3 Rumors about Roman Reigns that were false & 2 that were true

#1 False Roman Reigns rumor: Mason Ryan joins The Shield

One of the most unexpected WWE moments of the last decade occurred in June 2014 when Seth Rollins attacked Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns. While Rollins’ betrayal has forever been etched in fans’ memories, long-term viewers might remember that WWE allegedly planned a different ending for The Shield’s demise.

According to the Wrestling Observer’s Bryan Alvarez, WWE originally wanted The Shield to separate in February 2014. At the time, the villainous trio’s relationship was one of the biggest storylines on RAW and SmackDown, and it ultimately led to them becoming babyfaces.

Alvarez also reported that former New Nexus member Mason Ryan had been considered as Reigns’ replacement in The Shield:

“The feeling this week is that when Roman Reigns does his babyface turn and split from the Shield, likely in February, that he’ll be replaced with a new guy in the group. The name Mason Ryan has been thrown around as a possibility.”

Mason Ryan performed on WWE’s main roster throughout 2011 before returning to the company’s developmental system. The Welshman received his release in April 2014, five weeks before The Shield separated. He has since gone on to work in real estate investment and as a Cirque du Soleil entertainer.