How did WWE hint at massive change to Roman Reigns' character on SmackDown?

Despite being on a hiatus from WWE, Roman Reigns remains a hot topic among fans. This is especially due to a major announcement made by Paul Heyman on the latest episode of SmackDown, where he revealed that The Tribal Chief had voluntarily withdrawn his name from this year's Draft pool.

Additionally, the Stamford-based company has hinted at a potential babyface turn of Roman Reigns on SmackDown.

This hint was dropped as The Bloodline was still included in the Draft picks but without Reigns. While drafting them to the blue brand, the Stamford-based company mentioned that the faction consisted of Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, and Paul Heyman. This tease suggests that WWE now depicts Reigns and The Bloodline as separate entities.

The Enforcer appears to have taken on a leadership role in the Samoan faction, formerly held by Reigns. This indicates that the Stamford-based promotion might be keeping Roman away from the faction, making it highly likely that he will return to the company without being part of it.

This opens up the possibility of a potential storyline where Roman Reigns returns as a babyface and confronts Solo Sikoa and his new iteration of The Bloodline.

A rivalry between the newly formed Samoan faction and Roman is something fans will surely be curious to see, as it will add a new chapter to The Bloodline Saga.

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When is Roman Reigns expected to make his return?

As of now, there is no certain update regarding the comeback of Roman Reigns in WWE. However, fans are currently eyeing the SummerSlam 2024 Premium Live Event as the potential location for Reigns' return to the Stamford-based promotion. This is because The Biggest Party of the Summer is considered a huge premium live event after WrestleMania, thus making it a significant venue for Roman's return.

Moreover, Roman Reigns made his return at SummerSlam 2020 in a villainous character. So, if The Tribal Chief returned at The Biggest Party of the Summer as a babyface this year, it would come full circle for Roman.

Additionally, Paul Heyman confirmed that Reigns will not be making an imminent return to the company while announcing his withdrawal from the 2024 WWE Draft pool. This increases the likelihood of Reigns returning directly at SummerSlam this year.

For those unaware, SummerSlam 2024 is scheduled to emanate live on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at the Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. It will be engaging to see whether Roman will be part of The Biggest Party of the Summer or not.