Roman Reigns' Biggest WWE Matches Of 2023: A Year In Review

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive deep into the epic journey of Roman Reigns in 2023. This was a year packed with thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and memorable moments that cemented his legacy. From jaw-dropping WrestleMania showdowns to grueling title defenses, we’re breaking down the matches that defined Roman Reigns' year. So, buckle up, because we’re about to relive some of the most electrifying moments in WWE!

WrestleMania 39: Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes

The highly anticipated WrestleMania 39 main event saw Roman Reigns defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes. Guys, this match was more than just a title defense; it was a clash of legacies. Roman, the dominant Tribal Chief, against Cody, who was making his emotional return to WWE, aiming to finish his story and capture the title that eluded his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes. The atmosphere at SoFi Stadium was electric, with fans split between supporting the established champion and the returning hero. The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions and action. Both superstars delivered their signature moves, and the near falls had everyone on the edge of their seats.

Roman Reigns, with his cunning strategy and the ever-present support of The Bloodline, managed to overcome Cody's resilience. The match was filled with interference from Solo Sikoa, which proved to be a crucial factor. Despite Cody's valiant effort and the overwhelming support from the crowd, Roman emerged victorious, extending his reign as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. This win not only solidified Roman’s dominance but also added another chapter to the ongoing Bloodline saga. The controversy surrounding the ending fueled further storylines and kept fans eagerly anticipating what would come next.

Backlash: Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, and Sami Zayn vs. Kevin Owens, Matt Riddle

At Backlash, Roman Reigns teamed up with Solo Sikoa and Sami Zayn to take on Kevin Owens and Matt Riddle in a high-stakes tag team match. This match was a direct continuation of the turbulent Bloodline storyline. Sami Zayn, who had defected from The Bloodline earlier in the year, found himself on the opposite side, adding a layer of personal animosity to the contest. The dynamic between Sami and the rest of The Bloodline was a central theme, with fans wondering how Roman would handle facing his former ally. The match was intense and action-packed, with all six superstars showcasing their incredible athleticism and storytelling abilities.

Kevin Owens and Matt Riddle brought their A-game, determined to take down The Bloodline and avenge the injustices they had suffered. However, the cohesion and raw power of Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa proved to be a formidable combination. Sami Zayn’s inner conflict was evident throughout the match, as he struggled with his loyalty to Kevin Owens and his past allegiance to The Bloodline. In the end, Roman Reigns secured the victory for his team, further asserting his dominance over the WWE landscape. This match not only provided thrilling in-ring action but also advanced the complex narrative of The Bloodline, keeping fans invested in the ongoing drama.

Money in the Bank: Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa vs. The Usos

Money in the Bank featured a historic tag team match where Roman Reigns teamed with Solo Sikoa to face The Usos. This marked the first time Roman had ever faced The Usos, his cousins, in a WWE ring, making it a deeply personal and emotionally charged encounter. The breakdown of The Bloodline had been brewing for months, and this match was the culmination of that internal conflict. The Usos, after enduring months of Roman's manipulative control, finally decided to stand up to their Tribal Chief, leading to this unprecedented showdown. The atmosphere in London's O2 Arena was electric, with fans fully aware of the historical significance of the match.

The match itself was a masterpiece of storytelling and athleticism. The Usos brought an unmatched level of intensity, determined to prove that they were no longer under Roman’s shadow. The raw emotion was palpable as the cousins traded blows, each move carrying the weight of their shared history and fractured loyalty. Roman Reigns, known for his calculated approach, found himself facing opponents who knew him intimately, negating his usual advantages. In a stunning turn of events, The Usos defeated Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa, marking Roman's first pinfall loss in over three years. This victory was a monumental moment for The Usos, signaling their full separation from The Bloodline and setting the stage for an even more intense rivalry.

SummerSlam: Roman Reigns vs. Jey Uso

At SummerSlam, Roman Reigns defended his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Jey Uso in what was billed as "Tribal Combat." This match was the climax of the Bloodline storyline, with Jey Uso challenging Roman for the title and the right to lead their family. The stakes were incredibly high, as the match was not just about the championship but also about family pride and dominance. The rules of Tribal Combat allowed for anything goes, creating an environment of unpredictable chaos. The emotional investment in this match was immense, with fans deeply invested in the outcome of this family feud. Roman’s dominant reign was on the line, and Jey was determined to dethrone his cousin and bring honor back to their family.

The match was brutal and unforgiving, with both superstars pushing their bodies to the limit. They used everything at their disposal, from chairs and tables to the very ring itself, to inflict damage on each other. The interference from other members of The Bloodline, particularly Jimmy Uso, added another layer of complexity to the match. Just when it seemed that Jey was on the verge of victory, Jimmy shockingly betrayed his brother, costing him the match and the championship. Roman Reigns capitalized on this betrayal, securing the win and retaining his title. This shocking turn of events left fans stunned and further deepened the intricate web of relationships within The Bloodline. The aftermath of this match set the stage for further turmoil and conflict within the family.

Crown Jewel: Roman Reigns vs. LA Knight

At Crown Jewel, Roman Reigns faced LA Knight in a highly anticipated title defense. This match was significant because it pitted Roman against a rising star who had quickly gained popularity with the WWE Universe. LA Knight’s charisma and in-ring skills had made him a fan favorite, and many were eager to see if he could dethrone the seemingly invincible Tribal Chief. The atmosphere in Saudi Arabia was electric, with fans excited to witness this clash of generations. Roman, the established champion, sought to prove that he was still at the top of his game, while LA Knight aimed to seize the opportunity and claim the championship.

The match was a testament to both superstars' abilities. LA Knight brought an unmatched level of energy and determination, showcasing his impressive move set and connecting with the crowd. Roman Reigns, as always, relied on his power and strategy, using his experience to control the pace of the match. The interference from The Bloodline played a crucial role, as Solo Sikoa attempted to tip the scales in Roman’s favor. Despite LA Knight’s valiant effort and the overwhelming support from the fans, Roman Reigns managed to secure the victory, retaining his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. This win further solidified Roman’s legacy as one of the greatest champions in WWE history, while LA Knight’s performance proved that he was a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.

Royal Rumble 2024: Roman Reigns vs. Randy Orton vs. AJ Styles vs. LA Knight

Looking ahead, Roman Reigns is set to defend his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Royal Rumble 2024 against a * formidable lineup* of Randy Orton, AJ Styles, and LA Knight in a Fatal Four-Way match. This match is shaping up to be an epic encounter, with each superstar bringing their unique skills and motivations to the table. Randy Orton, a legendary veteran, is seeking to reclaim his place at the top of WWE after a long hiatus. AJ Styles, known for his phenomenal in-ring abilities, aims to add another championship reign to his illustrious career. LA Knight, still riding the wave of his rising popularity, is determined to finally capture the title that has eluded him.

The dynamics of this match are incredibly intriguing. Roman Reigns will need to overcome not one, but three top-tier opponents to retain his championship. The potential for chaos and unpredictability is high, as alliances could form and break at any moment. The interference from The Bloodline remains a significant factor, as they are likely to play a role in the outcome of the match. This Fatal Four-Way match at Royal Rumble 2024 promises to be a thrilling and unforgettable event, setting the stage for the rest of the year in WWE.

Conclusion

Roman Reigns' 2023 was a year defined by high-stakes matches, intense rivalries, and memorable moments. From his WrestleMania victory over Cody Rhodes to his Tribal Combat showdown with Jey Uso, Roman consistently delivered thrilling performances that captivated the WWE Universe. As we look forward to 2024, it’s clear that Roman Reigns will continue to be a dominant force in WWE, and his matches will undoubtedly be must-see events. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, Roman Reigns’ journey is one that you won’t want to miss. Keep your eyes peeled for more epic battles and unforgettable moments from the Tribal Chief!