Anyone who has tuned into even a single WWE program lately can tell you who the next big thing is. Whether everyone agrees with it or not, its obvious that Roman Reigns is WWEs new golden boy. Hes been groomed for a top spot since day one -- even when he was in the Shield. Roman is a charismatic guy with the look of a top tier performer. Some argue that he may not yet have the ability, but for the most part, he has the support -- from both the fans and the office. Reportedly, Reigns is being set up to take the WWE World Heavyweight Championship from Brock Lesnar. Quite frankly, that would be huge for the relatively new star. Lesnar has been on a tear since his return to WWE, running roughshod on Triple H, destroying John Cena, and of course, becoming the one in 21-1. If Reigns can dethrone Lesnar, it would immediately establish him as a major star within the company -- possibly even THE guy. However, fans of the powerful Samoan shouldnt get ahead of themselves just yet. While Roman Reigns has obviously become the so-called chosen one, hes not ready to do battle with Brock Lesnar at this time. WWE wisely doesnt want to jump the gun with this. The thought is to keep Reigns and Lesnar apart until the time is right, and the current speculation points to WrestleMania 31 in Santa Clara, California. For the time being, WWE wants to see Reigns continue his ascension to the top. Meanwhile, what the company has in mind for Lesnar is not known at this time. The champion is due to face off with John Cena in a rematch at Night of Champions -- although there has been speculation that the bout may not actually take place. WrestleMania frankly is a long way off, and while thats good for Reigns -- who will continue to climb the ranks and hone his skills -- it may not be so good for Brock or the company. Lesnar is currently only required to work a certain number of dates per year, although it is not known exactly how many. With WrestleMania more than seven months away, the company will have to stretch Brocks dates out -- or possibly pay him more money to make more frequent appearances. Regardless, the plan makes sense. Reigns has been steadily climbing the ladder of success within the WWE. Undoubtedly, a championship win over Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 31 would be a great moment for the young superstar. Its the embodiment of the WrestleMania moment that WWE so often desires. However, the Showcase of the Immortals is far enough away that plans could always change. No one knows what wrench could be thrown in the system in the interim -- Daniel Bryan returning could possibly affect plans. Still, the plan is set for the time being, and if all plays out, Roman Reigns could be the next WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Do you think Reigns has what it takes to dethrone Lesnar and carry the company? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.
