In the lead-up to WrestleMania XL, tensions are running high, and every promo is under intense scrutiny. Roman Reigns, the reigning WWE Universal Champion, has recently come under fire for what many critics are calling a lackluster and uninspired promo against his upcoming opponent, Cody Rhodes. The promo, delivered on the latest episode of SmackDown, has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and pundits alike, many of whom felt that Reigns’ performance lacked the energy and urgency expected for such a high-stakes encounter.
The Anticipated Face-Off
The face-off between Reigns and Rhodes had been highly anticipated. This meeting marked the first time the two would engage in a promo without the presence of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who had previously been a dominating vocal presence in their encounters. Paul Heyman, Reigns’ advocate, orchestrated the one-on-one confrontation, ensuring that Rhodes would come alone to SmackDown. This setup was meant to heighten the intensity and spotlight Reigns’ ability to command the ring solo.
Criticism from Fans and Critics
However, the outcome was not as explosive as expected. Many critics noted that Reigns appeared “kind of just tired” during his promo, a sentiment echoed by Jonathan Hood and Justin LaBar on the Busted Open podcast. They argued that Reigns’ demeanor was more nonchalant than passionate, a stark contrast to Cody Rhodes, who exuded energy and determination. “It does feel like Roman’s just kind of tired or done,” Hood remarked, highlighting the champion’s seemingly low energy.
The criticism wasn’t limited to just the podcast hosts. Social media lit up with comments from fans who felt let down by Reigns’ performance. Many pointed out that with WrestleMania XL just two weeks away, this promo should have been a fiery build-up to their match, not a display of complacency.
Character Design or Genuine Fatigue?
Some analysts, however, offered a differen
t perspective. They suggested that Reigns’ apparent fatigue might be a deliberate part of his character design. As The Tribal Chief, Reigns has often portrayed a calm, calculated, and almost detached persona, one that doesn’t easily get rattled. This could explain his relaxed demeanor during the promo. “I think some of it’s by design. I think some of it is within character design,” LaBar noted.
Nevertheless, the timing of this low-energy performance was unfortunate. With Reigns and The Rock set to face Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins on Night 1 of WrestleMania XL, followed by Reigns’ title defense against Rhodes on Night 2, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Fans were hoping for a more intense buildup to these highly anticipated matches.
A Missed Opportunity
Comparisons were quickly drawn to Reigns’ recent appearance on the Pat McAfee show, where he delivered a more aggressive and engaging promo. Critics argued that this level of intensity was missing from his SmackDown appearance. The consensus was that Reigns missed an opportunity to solidify his dominance and set the stage for an epic showdown at WrestleMania.
What’s Next?
As the Road to WrestleMania continues, the pressure is on for Reigns to redeem himself in the eyes of the fans and critics. The upcoming episodes of SmackDown and RAW will be crucial in setting the tone for WrestleMania XL. Cody Rhodes, having successfully taken on Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa, has proven himself a formidable challenger, and Reigns will need to bring his A-game to maintain his status as The Tribal Chief.
Conclusion
“Kind of Just Tired” has become the catchphrase critics are using to describe Roman Reigns’ recent SmackDown promo. Whether this was a strategic character choice or a genuine lapse in energy, the reaction highlights the high expectations fans have for their champions. As WrestleMania XL approaches, all eyes will be on Reigns to see if he can reignite the fire and deliver the intensity that has made him one of WWE’s most compelling figures. The wrestling world awaits with bated breath for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown.
