Top SmackDown Rumors: 8-time WWE Champion to finally return in 2022; Reigns hits back at Goldberg's comments on him, and more (12th December)

Welcome to another edition of the top SmackDown backstage rumours that could have a major impact on the Blue brand in the months to come. With TLC around the corner, there are some major matches that the company is building towards, including a Universal Championship match involving Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens.

We will talk about what the backstage response to Kevin Owens has been since he became a main event Superstar feuding with The Big Dog on SmackDown. Apart from that, this article will also take a look at Roman Reigns' response to Goldberg's comments on him, and much more.

So without further ado, let us dive in and take a look at the biggest rumours involving SmackDown.

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#5 Plans for SmackDown's Roman Reigns vs The Rock

As reported earlier, WWE was initially planning to have The Rock face SmackDown Superstar Roman Reigns at next year's WrestleMania. However, that plan may not come to fruition this time.

As per Dave Meltzer of The Observer, The Rock is unlikely to compete at next year's WrestleMania. However, The Rock is willing to make a comeback in 2022 to face Roman Reigns.

"According to those very close to the situation, Johnson has brought up the possibility of doing a match with Reigns in 2022, but that's a long way away, and he'd be 49 by that time. Obviously, this is all up to him; he wants in this year tomorrow, or next month, and he's in. But on the creative side, they've been told he's a no go."

The Rock has a packed schedule and it is difficult for the Brahama Bull to take time out for a big match next year. Reigns has been on a hot streak since returning at SummerSlam and WWE will have to look for a perfect opponent for The Tribal Chief to face at WrestleMania to build towards a match against 8-time WWE Champion The Rock.

#4 SmackDown's Roman Reigns' confusing plans for WrestleMania 37

The Universal Champion Roman Reigns is currently feuding with Kevin Owens on SmackDown. However, this feud may not be a very long one as the match between the men at TLC will likely be a one-off. As per Dave Meltzer of The Observer, Roman Reigns' opponent for next year's WrestleMania is undecided as of now.

"Regarding the direction of Roman Reigns for WrestleMania, as of right now, in December, there is no name on the books, which some note is mind-boggling since in the past much of the Mania card would be done and all booking on television and PPV would be based on leading to that direction. Sometimes there would be a change, but usually the top stuff has a direction."

Meltzer also noted that there is no pressure for direction in WWE right now and things seem to be thrown together. It had previously been reported that WWE may give SmackDown Superstar Big E or Daniel Bryan a major push, with one of them facing Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 37.

#3 SmackDown's Roman Reigns hits back at Goldberg

Goldberg recently took a shot at SmackDown Superstar Roman Reigns. The former Universal Champion hinted at a return while talking on WWE's The Bump and called out Roman Reigns.

Goldberg made it very clear that Reigns 'is next' and he will be gunning for The Tribal Chief upon his return. The two men were set to clash at WWE WrestleMania 36 but were unable to do so due to Reigns backing out.

Here is what SmackDown Superstar Roman Reigns had to say in response to Goldberg on Twitter:

"I never wait in line. I am the attraction and I choose who’s next. And that’s Kevin Owens."

Goldberg accused Reigns of stealing 'his move' and even called the Universal Champion out on backing out of a match against him.

"He backed out on me at WrestleMania. He stole my move, god knows how long ago. And he continues to perform it at sub-par level. Let's me perfectly honest, I'm the dude who delivers the spear and I don't think that he understands what it's like until I deliver one to him. So Roman, it's coming and I'm coming for you. I may be old, I may be gray, but I'm still Goldberg."

The former WCW Champion made it clear that he is coming for SmackDown star Roman Reigns when he returns.

#2 Real reason why SmackDown's Otis was sent back to the Performance Center

Dave Meltzer of WON had reported that Vince McMahon had ordered for some of the 'big men' to be sent back to the PC in order to polish their in-ring abilities. One of the names on the list is SmackDown Superstar Otis.

Fightful have now reported that there is no heat on Otis and the main reason for him being sent back to train is so that he can be safer in the ring. The other Superstars who have reportedly been sent back include Keith Lee, Dabba Kato and Mace among a few others.

"The belief is that Otis can be safer in the ring. It was added that there is no heat on Otis in association with the assessment of his in-ring safety. It seems like WWE just wants to plug all the loopholes and ensure that Otis becomes a more reliable and refined in-ring performer."

It seemed as if SmackDown Superstar Otis would get a major push after winning the WWE MITB contract earlier this year but the interest in Otis has fizzled out.

#1 Backstage reaction on Kevin Owens's performance on SmackDown

Kevin Owens is a former Universal Champion but has been stuck in mid-card limbo for the past few years. However, The Prizefighter is now involved in a feud with Universal Champion Roman Reigns on SmackDown. The two men will be facing each other at TLC with Reigns' title on the line.

As per Fightful Select, people backstage are pleased with Kevin Owens' performance on SmackDown and believe that he was able to stand toe-to-toe with The Big Dog in terms of cutting promos on SmackDown.

"The report states that the reactions to Kevin Owens' angle with Roman Reigns have been very positive. It was additionally reported that Roman Reigns' performances after returning at SummerSlam and the execution of all the angles since his comeback have been well-received."

It is expected that Roman Reigns will come out victorious following his match against Kevin Owens, but it is a good chance for KO to finally establish himself as a top card Superstar on SmackDown.

Edited by Nishant Jayaram