Top Roman Reigns News & Rumors: Royal Rumble opponent revealed, Major plan changed, top name to put him over before leaving? – 23rd December 2021

#4. Major plan involving Roman Reigns got changed

Fightful Select noted that WWE's original plan for Roman Reigns' last SmackDown was for him to open the show. The plan was changed and his promo was moved to the main event instead:

"Originally, Roman Reigns was set to open Smackdown on December 17 with an in-ring promo, which was moved to the main event spot. Usos vs. New Day was slated internally to main event, and was adjusted.''

It would seem that WWE made the right call as Reigns turning on Heyman wouldn't have had the same impact in the opening segment. On top of that, the visuals of The Beast Incarnate leaving Roman Reigns laying at the end of the show added to the drama of the ongoing feud.

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#3. R-Truth showers praise on Roman Reigns

Former 24/7 Champion R-Truth spoke to Corey Graves on After the Bell about Roman Reigns. The veteran said he's a big fan of Reigns and feels that The Big Dog has matured a lot as a superstar over the years:

"I don’t even think [Roman Reigns has] reached the pinnacle of his career and he’s as hot as a six-shooter right now, he’s hotter than a firecracker, he’s hotter than hot sauce. He’s matured so much."

Truth added that he has seen the Universal Champion succeed on so many levels. He believes that Roman has the 'It factor' which has helped him become a big star.