The October 22nd edition of Monday Night Raw began in tragedy. During the opening segment of Raw, the Universal Champion Roman Reigns officially relinquished his recently won title.
Roman addressed the WWE Universe in Providence, Rhode Island as Joe (his real name). He gave a shocking announcement that he has been living with leukemia for 11 years and that it had returned to wreak havoc on his body. He went on to clarify that he was by no means retiring and that after he is “done whooping leukemia’s ass” he is coming back to the ring.
He exited the ring leaving the title behind when he was greeted by his Shield brothers, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose. The three embraced at the top of the ramp and cried together.
This is truly one of the most shocking and tragic announcements on WWE television in recent years. For all the hate and criticism Roman has received over the years, nobody deserves to have their career derailed by cancer.
On the other hand, this could possibly benefit Roman in the long run. While there is no concrete answer as to how long he will be out of action, its safe to assume that he will not be returning to the ring for a long time, possibly even missing Wrestlemania.
However, considering how the fans have grown so tired of him being in the main event scene for roughly four years, maybe some time away could benefit the big dog and everyone else on Raw. With the title vacant, it opens up an opportunity for guys like Seth Rollins, a now heel Dean Ambrose or Braun Strowman who has come so close to the title only to be screwed over one way or another to move into a main event spot.
It was later on announced on Raw by Michael Cole that Braun Strowman and Brock Lesner will be fighting for the vacant Universal Championship at Crown Jewel. If there was ever a time to put the red belt on the monster among men, this is that time.
In addition, when Reigns returns, he will receive a hero’s welcome and finally be able to reconnect with the crowd. And by the time he comes back to reclaim his title, guys like Rollins Ambrose, Strowman or McIntyre will have had plenty of time to establish themselves at the top of the card.
Whether you love him or hate him, Roman Reigns has been one of the most dedicated and hard-working members of WWE inside and outside of the ring, and it’s unfortunate to see yet another one of his world title reigns end short and under such horrific circumstances. His absence has left a huge hole in Monday Night Raw, and we will be thinking and praying for a quick recovery.
On behalf of the Clarion, we wish Joseph Anoa’i well in his fight with leukemia and hope to see him return soon.
Samuel Claude
Reporter