Top WWE Stars Who Could Challenge Roman Reigns

Roman Reigns is once again standing at the center of WWE’s main event scene, and the target on his back has never been bigger.

After capturing the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42, the Tribal Chief quickly found himself confronted by a familiar face  his cousin, Jacob Fatu.

WWE officials confirmed on RAW that Reigns has accepted Fatu’s challenge for Backlash 2026 in Tampa, setting up a high-stakes family collision that already feels historic.

The tension isn’t just about gold; it’s about pride, legacy, and control of the Anoa’i dynasty.

Fatu has built serious momentum in recent months, and insiders view him as a legitimate threat rather than a transitional challenger.

His intensity, combined with his personal connection to Reigns, gives this rivalry a realism that resonates beyond scripted drama.

With Backlash days away, WWE’s creative direction appears focused on elevating this family showdown into one of the company’s most compelling modern rivalries.

Rising Contenders Circling the Tribal Chief

Even with Fatu next in line, the championship picture remains wide open. Gunther’s name continues to surface in backstage discussions as a powerhouse primed for a marquee program.

The former Intercontinental Champion has reestablished himself as one of RAW’s most dominant forces, delivering punishing performances that demand world-title consideration.

A clash between Gunther and Reigns would be a battle of calculated brutality versus strategic dominance  a matchup built for a stadium stage.

Another emerging force is Oba Femi, who shocked audiences at WrestleMania with a statement victory over Brock Lesnar. That win instantly elevated Femi into elite company.

His recent open challenges on RAW signal confidence and upward momentum. Should WWE decide to fast-track his ascent, a showdown with Reigns could symbolize a generational shift.

Veteran star LA Knight also remains in the mix. While his booking has fluctuated, his crowd connection is undeniable. If momentum swings in his favor, Knight could reenter the title conversation quickly.

Meanwhile, names like Drew McIntyre and CM Punk are quietly being monitored as potential future rivals depending on how post-Backlash storylines unfold.

For now, Jacob Fatu stands first in line. But in WWE’s ever-shifting main event landscape, Roman Reigns isn’t just defending a championship  he’s defending his throne against an entire locker room waiting for its moment.