10 Times WWE Attempted To Use A Real Life Situation To Their Advantage (And Failed)

Whatever you made of The Big Dog’s booking, when Roman Reigns took to the mic to announce that his leukaemia had returned in late 2018, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. Reigns spoke honestly in his life and reunited with his Shield pals afterwards - it was heartbreaking, but beautiful.

The segment was handled sensitively; what came after was not. It wasn’t surprising to see WWE exploit their franchise player’s illness for views, but it was no less disgusting for its inevitability.

Dean Ambrose, Reigns’ long time partner and real life friend, was given a heel turn and tasked with cutting a promo involving Reigns getting what he deserved and “answer[ing] to the man upstairs”. This did not sit at all well with Ambrose, who was reportedly asked to say something far worse. The grubbiness of the angle was a contributing factor to his departure from the company.

Reigns is a true company man and has never said anything to suggest he was uncomfortable with his usage while receiving treatment, but this wasn’t a position anyone should be put in, let alone WWE’s biggest star.