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The ex-United States Champion was brimming with confidence after his win over Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42.
But little did the Tribal Wolf know, Roman Reigns has been operating at a different level and is the Tribal Chief of their vast lineage for a reason.
The Original Tribal Chief has once again proved why he sits at the Head of the Table as he managed to stop Jacob Fatu, a rising star who is hungry, young, and has a massive momentum behind him.
The OTC has shut down all his doubters and critics, beating the Samoan Werewolf clean.
That being said, in this listicle, we will explore three reasons why Roman Reigns retained his WWE World Heavyweight Title against a credible rising star, as Fatu.
#3. To solidify his WWE World Heavyweight Title reign
Roman Reigns won the World Heavyweight Championship last month in dominant fashion, beating CM Punk on night two of the Granddaddy of Them All after delivering one of the best Mania main-event bouts of all time.
It’s not a hidden fact that The Original Tribal Chief is a cash cow for the Stamford-based promotion, and the company wasn’t going to strip him of his World Heavyweight Championship in his first title defense. His win over Jacob Fatu has solidified his Championship reign already, as the Samoan Werewolf was a tough competitor and was riding a massive wave of success.
Reigns not only stopped the Tribal Wolf but also ended his 278-day undefeated streak without being pinned. That being said, this win at Backlash Premium Live Event has contributed to solidifying his current WWE World Heavyweight Championship reign. On the flip side, Jacob has also been introduced to the main-card picture, and from every angle, it looks like he is not getting downgraded anytime soon, and Jacob would end up becoming the champion in the near future.
#2. To set up a rematch at WWE Clash in Italy
The next Premium Live Event that World Wrestling Entertainment will host is an international PLE: Clash in Italy 2026, which will take place at the Inalpi Arena in Turin on May 31. This marks the first time a PLE will be held in Italy.
After Roman Reigns executed his perfect game plan and beat the Samoan Werewolf clean, Fatu snapped at The OTC, brutally attacking and crossing the line.
The RAW General Manager, Adam Pearce, with security personnel, rushed into the ring to stop Jacob Fatu.
The real-life Bloodline member ended the night by lifting the WWE World Heavyweight Championship above his head, making it clear that their saga is far from over.
This post-match attack could set up a rematch between Roman and Jacob at the upcoming Clash in Italy on May 31, 2026.
Moreover, as Reigns was leaving the ring, Cathy Kelley stopped him to get his thoughts on The Samoan Werewolf’s actions after their match. The Original Tribal Chief wasn’t happy at all and warned him that this may be the last night of Fatu in the company.
“This is why we never should have let Jacob in this company. You don’t belong here Jacob. There is no order with you. This is your last night here.”
Jacob Fatu also issued a warning to Roman Reigns on his way out. Will the Samoan Werewolf face repercussions for his actions? Only time will tell.
#1. Jacob Fatu isn’t ready to carry the ball
Every Superstar dreams about becoming the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, but only a handful of them get to fulfil their dreams.
There’s no doubt that Jacob Fatu is a legit talent and a future world champion, but he was not ready to carry the ball at this point.
He needs some more time to establish himself as a believable star to hold the most prestigious prize in all of sports entertainment.
A long-running feud with Roman Reigns could help him realize his dream and make him a bona fide superstar.
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