Roman Reigns’ next championship defense has been confirmed – the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion will put his titles on the line in a blockbuster Fatal 4-Way Match at Royal Rumble 2024. His opponents will be former champions Randy Orton, AJ Styles, and rising star LA Knight.
Build Up to the Match Announcement
Reigns has held the Universal Championship since August 2020 and added the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 38 last year, becoming the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. He has dominated WWE programming as the leader of The Bloodline faction also featuring The Usos and Solo Sikoa.
There has been speculation of who could challenge Reigns at upcoming premium live events. On the January 5th episode of SmackDown, dubbed “New Year’s Revolution,” a triple threat #1 contender’s match was booked between Orton, Styles, and Knight. The winner would earn a shot at Reigns’ titles at Royal Rumble.
Chaotic Main Event Leads to Surprise Announcement
In the main event triple threat match, the three men put on an exciting contest showcasing their tremendous talent. However, there was a shocking conclusion when The Bloodline interfered, attacking all three competitors.
This led SmackDown commentator Michael Cole to announce that WWE Official Adam Pearce had made a decision in light of The Bloodline’s actions. Reigns would now defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Orton, Styles, and Knight in a Fatal 4-Way Match at Royal Rumble!
| Competitor | Accomplishments |
|---|---|
| Roman Reigns | Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, 6-time world champion |
| Randy Orton | 14-time world champion |
| AJ Styles | 2-time WWE Champion |
| LA Knight | Rising star, former Million Dollar Champion |
Fallout from Announcement
The high stakes match is sure to have major implications for Reigns and The Bloodline in 2024. Though he has found ways to retain despite lopsided odds in the past, a Fatal 4-Way pitting three top challengers gunning for his championships will be among Reigns’ toughest tests yet.
Orton and Styles have extensive experience in championship matches and will be determined to capture another world title reign. Meanwhile, LA Knight continues his rapid ascent in WWE and could build tremendous momentum with a championship win in just his first title match on the main roster.
There are also rumors that various surprise returns and debuts could play into the Royal Rumble event. Former Reigns rivals like Drew McIntyre and WWE legend The Rock have been discussed as possibilities. The Fatal 4-Way stipulation leaves the door open for interference, cash-ins, or other wild scenarios as well.
The Road to Royal Rumble 2024
WWE has announced Reigns will appear on upcoming episodes of SmackDown leading up to Royal Rumble alongside Paul Heyman. No doubt he will have plenty to say about his latest challengers. Orton, Styles, and Knight will also be featured prominently.
Further developments in storylines and matches for the Royal Rumble premium live event will unfold in the coming weeks. As the road to WrestleMania begins with WWE’s first major event of 2024, the stakes have never been higher with Reigns defending against three top challengers in a high-pressure Fatal 4-Way main event.
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