The landscape of WWE SmackDown just changed forever.
On the May 22, 2025 episode of SmackDown, the WWE Universe got what they’ve been waiting for: the long-awaited return of Roman Reigns, the self-proclaimed “One True Champion” (OTC). But this wasn’t just a return — it was a statement. A violent, calculated, and personal statement aimed directly at two of WWE’s brightest stars: Bron Breakker and Seth Rollins.
SmackDown was Already Electric… Until it Exploded
The show was already packed with excitement as Bron Breakker faced Seth Rollins in the main event, a cross-brand clash meant to settle the growing tension between the rising star and the veteran Architect. The match was hard-hitting and athletic, showing off Bron’s powerhouse style against Seth’s speed and experience. The crowd was on their feet.
But just as Rollins set up for a Curb Stomp, the arena lights dimmed.
“AAAAH YESSIR…” – Roman Reigns’ theme blasted.
The arena exploded. The Tribal Chief hadn’t been seen since WrestleMania, where he controversially lost the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Rumors swirled, but nobody expected this moment to come — especially not in the middle of a live match.
The Return of the Wolf
Out walked Roman Reigns — no vest, no smile, just a cold, focused expression. But something was different. He was sporting a new t-shirt that simply read “OTC: One True Champion,” signaling a shift in character. This wasn’t the Head of the Table anymore — this was a Roman Reigns reborn.
He slowly walked to the ring, as Bron and Seth both stood frozen, unsure what to expect. Then chaos broke loose.
Roman STRIKES!
Without hesitation, Roman slid into the ring and Speared Seth Rollins out of his boots. Before Bron could react, Roman leveled him with a Superman Punch. The referee called for the bell as Roman grabbed a steel chair from ringside and began brutally beating both men, one shot after another.
The commentary team was in disbelief.
“This isn’t the Roman Reigns we knew… this is something more dangerous,” Michael Cole shouted as Roman placed the chair over Seth’s neck and taunted the crowd.
“I never lost. You crowned pretenders,” Roman yelled into the camera. “I AM the One True Champion. And I’m done playing nice.”
He stood tall over the bodies of Rollins and Breakker, raising the chair above his head like a trophy as security and officials rushed the ring.
SmackDown went off the air in absolute chaos.
What’s Next for Roman Reigns?
With this return, Reigns has declared war not only on Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker but seemingly on WWE management, champions, and anyone in his way. Whether this is a quest to reclaim gold or a mission to destroy the system that “betrayed” him, one thing is clear:
The Tribal Chief is gone. The OTC is here.
And WWE will never be the same again.
