For years, WWE enthusiasts have buzzed with anticipation for a monumental clash between two titans: Roman Reigns and The Rock. This dream match pits WWE’s current dominant force against one of wrestling’s most iconic figures. Beyond the ring, their connection runs deeper than just professional respect, sparking the question: are The Rock and Roman Reigns actually related?
Image: The Rock and Roman Reigns, a dream match years in the making for WWE fans, highlighting their potential face-off in the ring.
WWE had envisioned this epic showdown headlining WrestleMania 39, but scheduling conflicts derailed those plans. However, the prospect of this match remains very much alive, fueled by The Rock’s recent WWE appearances, including a New Year’s Day Raw segment where he subtly hinted at challenging Roman Reigns for the coveted “Head of the Table” status. WWE commentators frequently mention their cousin status, but is this genuine family ties or just wrestling storyline theatrics? Let’s delve into the real connection between these two wrestling powerhouses.
The Anoa’i Family Connection: More Than Just Cousins
While Roman Reigns and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson aren’t blood relatives in the strictest sense, their bond is deeply rooted in the legendary Anoa’i family, a Samoan-American wrestling dynasty. They indeed refer to each other as cousins, and this is more than just a casual label; it signifies a profound family connection within the Samoan culture and wrestling fraternity.
The link between The Rock and Roman Reigns traces back to their grandfathers. The Rock’s grandfather, the revered “High Chief” Peter Maivia, and Roman Reigns’ grandfather, Reverend Amituana’i Anoa’i, were considered “blood brothers.” This traditional bond, stronger than blood relations in Samoan culture, effectively inducted Peter Maivia into the Anoa’i family lineage.
The Rock and Roman Reigns have a real-world connection
Image: The Rock and Roman Reigns pictured together, emphasizing their real-world connection and family ties within the Anoa’i wrestling dynasty.
This familial connection extends throughout the wrestling world. The Anoa’i family tree is laden with wrestling royalty, including names like Rikishi (father of The Usos), the late Umaga, Yokozuna, and Nia Jax. These wrestlers, along with many others, are part of this expansive and influential family, all linked by blood or the “blood brother” tradition.
The Rock Confirms WrestleMania Plans and Family Bond
The Rock himself has openly discussed the planned WrestleMania main event against Roman Reigns and the significance of their family relationship. In an interview on The Pat McAfee Show in September, The Rock confirmed that a match against his “cousin” Roman Reigns at WrestleMania, specifically at SoFi Stadium, was a serious plan.
He detailed meetings in early 2022 with WWE executives, including Nick Khan and Vince McMahon, where they discussed and agreed upon the monumental match. The Rock emphasized the desire to create something “unprecedented” for the fans, something bigger than just a match, leveraging their family connection to build a compelling narrative.
The pair starred in Fast and Furious Presents: Hobbs and Shaw together
Image: The Rock and Roman Reigns, pictured in a promotional image for “Fast and Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” showcasing their off-screen camaraderie and professional relationship beyond wrestling.
While the WrestleMania 39 plan didn’t materialize, the door remains open for a future clash between these two wrestling icons. The foundation of their storyline is deeply personal, rooted in genuine family ties and respect, making the potential match even more compelling for fans worldwide. Their relationship is a fascinating blend of real family connection and captivating wrestling narrative, adding layers of intrigue to any future confrontation in the WWE ring.
