Roman Reigns Set to Make Imminent WWE Return Amid TV Absence

Roman Reigns has been off WWE television since Survivor Series: WarGames back in November, but that won’t last much longer.

According to Self Made Pro during the January 5, 2026 episode of Self Made Sessions, the former Undisputed WWE Champion is set to return to WWE programming in the near future and it will be on the blue brand.

“Roman is going to make appearances on SmackDown again soon. I can tell you that.”

This return comes amid speculation about WWE’s top title picture—and whether Reigns will face Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, or someone else at WrestleMania 42. According to Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is already mapping out another massive title match between Reigns and Rhodes. But there’s a twist: it may not happen on the grandest stage this time.

“It’s been confirmed to us that a Rhodes vs. Reigns match for the WWE title is in the plans, although not necessarily at WrestleMania,” wrote Dave Meltzer.

WWE is reportedly considering several alternate directions, including Reigns vs. Punk, Rollins vs. Breakker, or Cody facing another opponent entirely. That opens up new possibilities heading into the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event in Saudi Arabia on January 31.

The Tribal Chief’s return now adds new urgency to the title picture and could definitely change the direction of the Road to WrestleMania in the weeks ahead.

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