Roman Reigns Suspension Fallout: When WWE Knew, Draft Implications, Battleground

[Kemo]

Obviously the big story of the day is Roman Reigns being suspended for 30 days for violating WWE’s talent wellness policy.

In a breaking news audio update, Dave Meltzer revealed on Wrestling Observer Radio that WWE was aware of Reigns failing a drug test prior to Sunday’s Money in the Bank pay-per-view. It explains why WWE took the title off him, but booking him in the main event of the next PPV is a curious decision to say the least.

Reigns’ suspension will be over in the days leading up to Battleground on 7/24, but he will not be appearing TV prior to the show. It remains to be seen how WWE will handle the situation on air. The company could have had Seth Rollins defeat Reigns on RAW last night, challenge Ambrose in a singles match at Battleground then hold off on the triple threat until SummerSlam. It’s somewhat odd that WWE didn’t go this route, but perhaps in time we’ll find out why things unfolded the way they did.

The other big issue is the upcoming WWE Draft, scheduled for July 19th. After being pushed as “the guy” for the past several months, Reigns would have almost certainly been the top pick by either the RAW or SmackDown. With the way he’s been pushed, it’s not far fetched to assume Reigns would have been the first overall pick of the draft, ahead of John Cena. Again, we’ll just have to see how this one plays out.

It’s also worth noting that WWE will have to also change the main event the upcoming live event from Madison Square Garden on 7/16, which was scheduled to be Reigns vs. Seth Rollins.

[Travicity]

OMG Am I dreaming. I just found out Ambrose became WWE champion and 2 minutes later Roman is suspended. Greatest day in history.