Lloyd Anoa’i Discusses the Rise of Roman Reigns in WWE, Reigns Embracing His Role as The Tribal Chief

During a recent interview with PWMania.com, wrestling veteran Lloyd Anoa’i spoke about the rise of his cousin, Roman Reigns, in WWE, the possibility of a WrestleMania megamatch, and WWE’s long-term storytelling. Below are some highlights from from PWMania:

Lance Anoa’i on Roman Reigns Fully Embracing His Role as The Tribal Chief

“Roman — Joe — is a natural. At first, he was focused on football, and wrestling wasn’t his main plan. But once he got into it, Vince [McMahon] knew right away he’d be a star. From FCW to The Shield, they built him up step by step. And when he finally grew into the Tribal Chief character, everything clicked. He became unstoppable. You could see the confidence, the presence — he owned it.”

On If Roman Reigns vs. The Rock Could Still Happen

“I’d love to see it. That match would be a record-breaker, no doubt about it. WWE teased it before and then pivoted, which I thought was smart at the time. But I don’t think it’s off the table at all. Even if The Rock isn’t wrestling full-time, he’ll always be part of the story in some way. WWE always leaves the door open for surprises.”

On Who He’d Want To Feud With in WWE Today

“Of course, anything with my family is a natural storyline. But outside of that, I’d love to work with Drew McIntyre. I’ve known Drew since Europe when he was young. He deserves more, and if built properly, he could draw huge money — especially in a program with Roman. That’s a main-event level story right there.”

Roman Reigns last wrestled in the men’s WarGames match at WWE Survivor Series: WarGames 2025 last November, teaming with CM Punk, Cody Rhodes, and The Usos against the team of Brock Lesnar, Drew McIntyre, and The Vision (Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed & Logan Paul). The Vision’s team was victorious. After the match, Reigns shared a moment with Cody Rhodes, telling him it would be the last time he ever teams with the former WWE Undisputed Champion.