Roman Reigns Is BACK and Confronts Cody Rhodes Backstage At WWE SmackDown!
The WWE Universe was electrified on January 2, 2026, as SmackDown kicked off the new year with a bang from the KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York.
Roman Reigns made a stunning return, confronting Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes in a tense backstage encounter that has fans buzzing about potential future clashes.
Reigns, absent from WWE television for several months, reemerged flanked by Jimmy and Jey Uso, the current World Tag Team Champions. His entrance marked the reunion of the original Bloodline, signaling a shift in power dynamics within the faction that has dominated SmackDown for years.
Cody Rhodes, who dethroned Reigns at WrestleMania 40 to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship, was in the midst of addressing his ongoing rivalry with Drew McIntyre. The Scottish Warrior had challenged Rhodes to a Three Stages of Hell match, adding pressure to the champion’s reign.
Backstage, during an interview, Rhodes expressed confidence in overcoming all challengers. Suddenly, the atmosphere thickened as Jimmy and Jey Uso appeared, blocking the corridor like silent sentinels. Moments later, Roman Reigns strode in, exuding his signature authority in a sharp suit.
The confrontation was immediate and intense. Rhodes locked eyes with Reigns, acknowledging his return with a composed, “Welcome back, Tribal Chief.” Reigns, smirking coldly, replied, “I never left, Cody,” underscoring his enduring presence in WWE despite the hiatus.
No punches were thrown, but the stare-down spoke volumes. The two stood inches apart, the air crackling with unresolved tension from their storied history. This moment recalled their epic battles, where Rhodes finally ended Reigns’ 1,316-day championship run.
Fans in the arena erupted as the segment aired on the big screen. Social media exploded with reactions, many speculating that this signals Reigns’ intent to reclaim his spot at the head of the table and challenge for the title once more.
WWE officials, including General Manager Nick Aldis, watched closely. Aldis has been managing heated rivalries, and this unexpected return adds another layer of complexity to the blue brand’s storylines heading into the Royal Rumble.
The Bloodline’s reformation includes Solo Sikoa, who has led the group in Reigns’ absence. With the Usos by his side, Reigns appears poised to reassert dominance, potentially targeting Rhodes as the symbol of his past defeat.
Rhodes, undeterred, continued his night by hyping his defense against McIntyre. However, the backstage encounter clearly weighed on him, as he later referenced the “ghosts of the past” in a promo, hinting at preparedness for any threat.
Analysts believe this confrontation sets the stage for a blockbuster feud. Reigns’ return could culminate in a trilogy match with Rhodes, given their 1-1 record in WrestleMania main events, fueling excitement for WrestleMania 42.
Other highlights from the episode included an eight-woman tag team match where Rhea Ripley, IYO SKY, Charlotte Flair, and Alexa Bliss faced off against Asuka, Kairi Sane, Nia Jax, and Lash Legend, showcasing the depth of the women’s division.
Damian Priest battled Aleister Black in a grueling Ambulance Match, with Priest emerging victorious after a brutal exchange that left both competitors battered and the crowd on their feet.
Giulia challenged Chelsea Green for the Women’s United States Championship, delivering high-flying action that ended with Giulia’s impressive upset win, marking her as a rising star on SmackDown.
WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill defended against Michin in a hard-hitting bout. Cargill retained her title, but Michin’s performance earned her respect and potential future opportunities.
The night’s energy was palpable, with the three-hour format allowing for deeper storytelling. Reigns’ appearance overshadowed much of the card, reminding everyone why he’s called the Tribal Chief.
Backstage reports indicate that Reigns’ return was kept under wraps, surprising even some roster members. This secrecy amplified the impact, creating authentic shock value for viewers worldwide.
Rhodes, in post-show comments, praised Reigns’ legacy but affirmed his own era. “The story isn’t finished, but I’m the one writing the chapters now,” he said, teasing more confrontations ahead.
For the Bloodline, this reunion could mean renewed dominance. With tag titles in hand and Reigns leading, they pose a formidable threat to any faction or individual standing in their way.
As WWE heads toward the Royal Rumble on January 25, 2026, this encounter has shifted predictions. Will Reigns enter the Rumble to earn a title shot, or challenge Rhodes directly?
The implications extend beyond SmackDown. Raw superstars like CM Punk and Gunther might react, potentially leading to cross-brand rivalries that spice up the road to WrestleMania.
Fans are already clamoring for a Reigns-Rhodes rematch. Their chemistry in the ring and on the mic has produced some of WWE’s most memorable moments in recent years.
In conclusion, January 2’s SmackDown delivered a masterclass in surprise and drama. Roman Reigns’ return and backstage stare-down with Cody Rhodes not only stole the show but also ignited the wrestling world for 2026.
