There is no denying that Roman Reigns is the "big dog" on Smackdown. As WWE Universal Champion, and playing the role of a villain that so many fans have clamored for over the years, it can be argued that this is the best version of Roman Reigns we have ever seen.
Roman's reign as WWE Universal Champion currently sits at more than 262 consecutive days, and it doesn't show any signs of ending any time soon. But when we see such a dominant run for a titleholder taking place, we as fans have to ultimately begin to ask the question - "Who will finally beat the champ?"
Following his defeat of Cesaro at WrestleMania Backlash, the answer to who is ready to dethrone Roman Reigns as Universal Champion is not quite clear.
Here are five superstars who could, or should, be the one to ultimately take down the Tribal Chief.
#5 Jimmy Uso could be the one to take down Roman Reigns
If Roman Reigns is the “Head of the Table” of the Samoan Dynasty, it would only make sense for a member of his own family to be the one to take him out.
Jimmy Uso made his return on Smackdown from a serious knee injury a few weeks ago. Up to this point he has shown some discontent with Reigns and has not quite fallen in line like his brother, Jey Uso, has.
Among other positives, one thing Roman's current reign as champion has allowed for is the opportunity for Jey Uso to shine as a singles competitor. So it would seem fitting that it might also do the same for Jimmy.
Perhaps Jimmy Uso could be molded into the underdog babyface who must overcome the odds, his cousin, and his own brother on his way to becoming the WWE Universal Champion and the new Tribal Chief of the Anoa’i clan.
#4 Jey Uso could stand up to Roman Reigns
If we consider Jimmy Uso a viable threat to Roman Reigns' throne as WWE Universal Champion, then we have to also consider Jey Uso as well.
While he may be Roman’s right-hand man now, it wasn’t always the case. Reigns’ run as champion and his ascent as the top heel on Smackdown really began with his feud with Jey in late 2020.
It was only after Roman soundly defeated him inside of Hell in a Cell that Jey decided to take his place as an ally to his cousin rather than an adversary.
Perhaps it will make sense that sooner or later, and maybe with the urging of his brother Jimmy, Jey Uso might decide he has had enough of The Tribal Chief.
Jey may need to ultimately stand up to his cousin one final time and once again challenge Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship to come full circle.
If he can get the job done, Jey Uso could finally take his spot as the “Head of the Table.”
#3 Edge gets his one-on-one shot at Roman Reigns
Even though Edge has not been seen on WWE television since WrestleMania, it would make some sense for the Rated R Superstar to be the one to ultimately end Roman Reigns' run as Universal Champion.
First of all, though Edge fell short of winning the Universal Championship at WrestleMania this year, he can make the case that he is still owed a true one-on-one match with Roman Reigns by virtue of winning the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble.
You also might want to consider Edge's reputation of being the “Ultimate Opportunist.” Edge is a superstar who knows when to strike when his opponent is at their weakest or most vulnerable.
He has successfully cashed in on two Money in the Bank briefcases in his WWE career. The Money in the Bank pay-per-view has been moved to July this year, and will now be the event that precedes SummerSlam.
Could there be some dots for Edge to connect there?
#2 Bobby Lashley hasn't faced Roman Reigns since 2018
One possible challenger to Roman Reigns isn't even currently on the same brand as he is.
There have been rumors being reported lately that there may possibly be some roster moves being made for RAW and Smackdown in the near future.
If that were to be the case, one name that could make some noise with a brand jump is the current WWE Champion, Bobby Lashley.
Lashley has had a great run as champion of the red brand. He has also let it be known on multiple occasions that he desires a match with Brock Lesnar.
If that match against Lesnar is not on the cards, perhaps the next biggest moneymaker will be a feud with Roman Reigns.
A Reigns/Lashley match is one we haven't seen since 2018, and both men are in entirely different places in their careers right now compared to then.
The All Mighty taking on the Head of the Table would be interesting, and Lashley has already proven he is capable of carrying a brand’s championship.
#1 Even Roman Reigns may have to acknowledge The Rock's greatness
Roman Reigns’ run as champion has been defined by his claim to be the Head of the Table and Tribal Chief of his family.
Who better to challenge that throne than the most successful member of the Samoan Dynasty, The Rock?
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is Roman Reigns' cousin, a former champion and quite possibly the most famous name in the history of the business.
All things considered, having The Rock be the one to ultimately end the title reign of The Big Dog makes all the creative sense in the world.
While The Rock is probably the longest shot on this list to face Roman at some point, given his Hollywood career and scheduling conflicts, it would make for a great conclusion to this storyline.
Who do you think Roman Reigns will ultimately have to acknowledge as his superior and be the one to end his title reign? Let us know in the Comments!