
Jacob Fatu made his intentions clear on the April 20 episode of WWE RAW, stepping up to challenge Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship at WWE Backlash.
The newly crowned champion appeared in the closing segment of WWE RAW after WrestleMania 42, accompanied by The Usos. He addressed recent tensions involving CM Punk and outside criticism, making it clear that the situation had changed now that he holds the championship.
Fatu then interrupted, coming off his WrestleMania victory over Drew McIntyre in an unsanctioned match. He stated directly that he is not just interested in what Reigns has, but that he needs it, before issuing a challenge for a title match at Backlash.
Reigns did not accept immediately. Instead, he told Fatu to take a week to think about the challenge, questioning whether he is ready for the responsibilities that come with being World Heavyweight Champion. Reigns and The Usos then left the ring, ending the segment without a confirmed match.
This aligns with WrestlingAttitude.com’s report, which indicated that Jacob Fatu was next in line for Roman Reigns, contradicting earlier reports that suggested Oba Femi or GUNTHER would be his immediate challengers.
The confrontation suggests Fatu is now part of WWE RAW moving forward. He had previously been aligned with SmackDown, where he held both the United States Championship and Tag Team Championship. His prior appearances on WWE RAW were limited, including a dark match in 2024.
Fatu and Reigns share history through The Bloodline storyline, but they have not faced each other in a singles match. With Reigns coming off his WrestleMania win over CM Punk, the potential matchup would represent a new chapter in that rivalry.
The segment also clarifies WWE’s immediate direction, indicating that Fatu is the leading challenger for Reigns heading into Backlash, scheduled for May 9 in Tampa.
Jacob Fatu Challenges Roman Reigns for World Title at WWE Backlash


