Roman Reigns had overcame every obstacle put before him leading into the Royal Rumble, capturing the WWE World Heavyweight Championship despite the constant interference in his journey by Vince McMahon, daughter Stephanie and son-in-law Triple H. Yet as he arrived in Orlando for the Royal Rumble, it was clear that it would take some sort of divine intervention for him to leave with his title. Entering the 30-man match at No. 1, he would have to overcome the challenge of his opponents, not to mention the lurking McMahons. Add to that a mid-match assault at the hands of The League of Nations, it appeared as though the most powerful wrestling family in the world would get their way. And they did. Fighting the overwhelming odds, not to mention to arrival of Triple H to the Rumble at No. 30, Reigns succumbed, watching from ringside as his hated enemy (and boss) eliminated his best friend to capture the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Now, Reigns is faced with a scenario where he must wage war with the COO of WWE, his wife and father-in-law in order to regain the title he lost Sunday night.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
