Every Roman Reigns WWE Universal Title Defence Ranked In Order Of Greatness
5. Vs Drew McIntyre (Clash At The Castle)
If ever there was a match where Roman Reigns perfected the art of everything that made this iconic Championship run great all it once, it was this one against Drew McIntyre.
Playing to a partisan UK crowd of WWE devotees so engaged in the revived post-Vince McMahon product that they were believing a happy ending was forthcoming, Reigns' ability to pace out his minor movements at every point in this match helped tell the sort of story few in the entire industry are capable of.
It was a master manipulator display, full of bravado when possible and nagging, lingering doubt the rest of the time. The more Drew withstood, the more the latter engulfed the former. And the best trick the pair played was in removing the need to do much at all. A glorious fusion of old tricks, new stars and contemporary expectations, the contest stands up even more in hindsight thanks to the bold booking choice.
McIntyre wasn't the right man even if it was in the right place, and Solo Sikoa's shocking debut kicked off an unreal start to life on the main roster too.