Since being taken out by the new Bloodline, Roman Reigns has been absent from SmackDown and off television. WWE initially advertised The Original Tribal Chief for the September 13, 2024, edition of SmackDown, but later removed him from the lineup.
However, recent hints from WWE suggest that Reigns could make his return on the upcoming episode of the blue brand. In this article, we will discuss four things Roman Reigns must do upon his return next week.
#4. Destroy Jacob Fatu to take revenge
One of the key players in Roman Reigns' destruction during his last appearance on SmackDown was Jacob Fatu. The Samoan Werewolf made his return and blindsided Reigns, giving him no chance to retaliate. If Roman Reigns returns to SmackDown next week during the premiere episode, he must seek revenge by destroying Jacob Fatu for taking him out.
This confrontation would mark their second major interaction and further establish both stars as dominant forces. Such a moment would undoubtedly generate a massive reaction from the crowd and intensify their rivalry.
#3. Must have Jimmy Uso and Paul Heyman on his side
Another key move Roman Reigns must make on the next SmackDown is to align with Jimmy Uso and Paul Heyman. Fans have been anticipating Jimmy's return for weeks, but it hasn’t materialized yet. Meanwhile, the 58-year-old legend was seen with Reigns backstage at SummerSlam but has been absent from television since he was taken out by Solo and his acolytes.
A reunion between Roman, Jimmy, and Heyman on SmackDown next week would make perfect sense, especially with Roman needing to regain the upper hand. With Jimmy by his side, Reigns would no longer be outnumbered as he was last time when he was overpowered by the new Bloodline.
This backup would strengthen Roman's position, giving him the numbers advantage to tackle any Bloodline danger.
#2. Roman Reigns must have a few words on the mic
Since his return as a babyface at SummerSlam, Roman Reigns has yet to speak on the mic. However, if Roman shows up on next week's Season Premiere of SmackDown, he must address the WWE Universe, as fans are eager to hear from him.
While he doesn’t need to deliver a full promo, simply holding the mic and delivering his iconic "Acknowledge Me" line would be enough to excite the crowd and remind everyone of his presence. This moment would reignite his connection with the audience and set the tone for his next move.
#1. Roman must cost Solo Sikoa the Undisputed Championship match
On next week's Season Premiere of SmackDown, Roman Reigns must interfere and cost Solo Sikoa his Undisputed WWE Title match against Cody Rhodes. For those unaware, on the recent SmackDown, Sikoa and Rhodes were involved in a heated segment, leading to the announcement of a Steel Cage match for the Undisputed WWE Title next week.
Even though it's a Steel Cage match, there’s still a chance that Bloodline members could try to interfere and give Solo an advantage. However, Roman needs to make his presence felt by ensuring that Sikoa doesn’t get any help, once again preventing him from emerging victorious.
Roman has already cost Solo once at SummerSlam during a title match, and it’s time for him to replicate that act next week.