Roman Reigns, often hailed as the face of WWE in recent years, has openly expressed his disappointment after not receiving any awards for his contributions to the company in 2024. Despite leading WWE’s most compelling storyline with The Bloodline, Reigns was notably absent from Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s (PWI) annual awards, leaving the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion feeling overlooked.
The Tribal Chief has been a dominant force in WWE for years, and 2024 was no exception. The continuation and eventual climax of The Bloodline saga captivated audiences around the world, blending family drama with intense rivalries. Reigns’ leadership of the faction, which included The Usos, Solo Sikoa, and Paul Heyman, was a driving force behind WWE’s success both in viewership and live event attendance. His masterful storytelling and ability to blur the lines between reality and fiction made The Bloodline storyline one of the most talked-about arcs in professional wrestling history.
Despite this, Reigns watched as other WWE superstars received recognition for their work. Dominik Mysterio was awarded Most Hated Wrestler of the Year, and Cody Rhodes swept three major PWI awards, including Wrestler of the Year, Favorite Wrestler of the Year, and Inspirational Wrestler of the Year. While these awards were well-deserved, Reigns reportedly felt that his pivotal role in WWE’s flagship storyline was ignored.
Speaking in a recent interview, Reigns didn’t hold back his feelings. “I’m not in this business for awards, but when you dedicate yourself to elevating the entire company and delivering some of the best work of your career, it’s disappointing to be overlooked,” he admitted. “The Bloodline storyline wasn’t just about me—it was about redefining what professional wrestling can be. To see that not recognized is frustrating.”
Reigns’ frustration stems from the fact that The Bloodline storyline wasn’t just a routine wrestling angle; it was a cultural phenomenon. The complex family dynamics, betrayals, and power struggles within the group drew comparisons to major television dramas. Fans were deeply invested in every twist and turn, and much of that success was due to Reigns’ compelling portrayal of The Tribal Chief.
Adding to his disappointment is the undeniable impact Reigns has had on WWE’s financial success. Pay-per-view buys, merchandise sales, and live event attendance consistently spiked during his reign. Reigns has carried the company through challenging times, particularly during the pandemic, when he reinvented himself as a dominant heel character and revitalized his career.
Many fans and analysts also share Reigns’ sentiment, believing that his absence from the awards list was a glaring oversight. Wrestling critics have pointed out that while Cody Rhodes’ underdog story captured hearts and Dominik Mysterio’s heel turn generated massive heat, Roman Reigns was the central figure driving WWE’s biggest narrative. His ability to consistently deliver high-caliber performances in both promos and matches solidified WWE’s dominance in the entertainment industry.
Despite his disappointment, Reigns remains focused on the future. “Awards come and go, but legacies last forever,” he said. “I know what I’ve accomplished, and so do the fans who have followed this journey. The story isn’t over yet.”
This statement suggests that Reigns is far from finished and may use this perceived snub as fuel to further elevate his already legendary career. With WWE’s ongoing evolution and the possibility of fresh rivalries and storylines in 2025, it’s clear that Roman Reigns will continue to be a defining figure in the company’s success.
Whether or not awards recognize his contributions, Roman Reigns’ impact on WWE is undeniable. His leadership of The Bloodline and his embodiment of The Tribal Chief have reshaped how long-term storytelling is viewed in professional wrestling. For many fans, no trophy or title could adequately represent the cultural shift Reigns has brought to WWE.
