3 Reasons Why Roman Reigns Might Not Feature At WWE Survivor Series 2023

WWE’s flagship pay-per-view, Survivor Series, is right around the corner. Scheduled for November 26th, 2023, this year’s edition already has fans buzzing with speculation about match cards, surprise returns, and more. However, one major talking point has dominated the rumor mills – will Roman Reigns compete in Survivor Series?

Reigns has been a central force in WWE over the past few years. As the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, holding both the WWE Championship and the Universal Championship, Reigns stands atop the men’s division. His reign of over 800 days has cemented his status as WWE’s top star. Despite this, there are signs indicating Reigns may sit out this year’s Survivor Series, breaking his streak of competing at major events.

The first clue lies in the overall booking and format of Survivor Series 2023. In previous years, Survivor Series has highlighted champion versus champion matches, pitting the top stars from RAW and SmackDown against each other in inter-brand bouts. However, the plans for this year seem to be steering in a different direction. The introduction of WarGames, the chaotic faction-based cage match, shows WWE’s focus leaning towards team warfare rather than individual showcase matches.

The inclusion of WarGames matches for both the men’s and women’s divisions reflects the current direction of WWE’s storylines. Monday Night RAW has heavily featured the villainous Judgment Day faction, led by Finn Balor. They have been feuding with top babyfaces like AJ Styles, Rey Mysterio, and Beth Phoenix. With WarGames as the battleground, these tensions will likely culminate at Survivor Series between the two teams. As this is the predominant storyline on RAW, it diminishes the chances of Reigns, a SmackDown Superstar, being involved in a high-profile match.

Additionally, reports have suggested that WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H is looking to spotlight different talents at Survivor Series 2023. Randy Orton’s imminent return after injury has been rumored as a focal point of the show. Orton is slated to return in time for Survivor Series, potentially as part of the men’s WarGames match. Showcasing Orton’s comeback would allow WWE to emphasize emerging storylines and rising talent rather than relying solely on Reigns’ star power per usual.

While Orton’s return match remains unconfirmed, Triple H’s approach indicates his vision is to structure Survivor Series as an ensemble event. The WarGames stipulation also suits this mission, as it incorporates more wrestlers into marquee matches rather than having standard singles bouts. With Triple H aiming to accentuate new directions and talents, Reigns may not factor into his plans as a priority, opening the door for The Tribal Chief to miss Survivor Series.

Moreover, reports of Reigns’ hiatus until the 2024 Royal Rumble pay-per-view also bolster the speculation of his absence. Sources have suggested Reigns is looking to take time off to recover after competing nonstop at a grueling pace over the past year. For a wrestler of his caliber and mileage, breaks are crucial for longevity. Reigns missing Survivor Series would allow him this downtime before returning for the Rumble and the ensuing WrestleMania season.

This potential hiatus mirrors how WWE has handled its other veteran top stars. Orton himself has worked a reduced schedule over the past few years, preserving his health and drawing power. Similarly, Daniel Bryan was often given light schedules or gaps between stretches of intense performing. Granting Reigns a breather despite being champion shows WWE’s trust in him and willingness to prioritize his well-being.

As WWE’s preeminent star, Reigns has earned leverage in dictating his bookings. If he has requested time off until January, WWE is likely willing to grant his wish rather than risk burning him out. Letting him miss Survivor Series would demonstrate WWE’s faith in building other talents during his absence. It also shows Reigns has the clout to take breaks when needed, unlike years past when WWE struggled without top stars like John Cena on shows.

In summary, several clues indicate Roman Reigns sitting out this year’s Survivor Series. The creative direction and focus on WarGames matches suggest less emphasis on champion versus champion bouts. Rumors of a hiatus until 2024 for Reigns also lend credence to his potential absence. While fans may be disappointed, this could allow others like Randy Orton, Finn Balor, and rising talents to take center stage.

Survivor Series was once defined by its traditional elimination matches. With the reintegration of WarGames alongside today’s talent-deep roster, WWE has a chance to craft something unique and unpredictable without relying solely on Reigns’ star power. Seeing fresh faces and matches at a “big four” pay-per-view could reinvigorate Survivor Series as a marquee event moving forward.

Reigns missing out this time would underscore the changing landscape in WWE under Triple H’s leadership. More talents are being spotlighted, with even prominent wrestlers like Reigns himself no longer needing to perform at every pay-per-view. This philosophy indicates a promising direction where WWE builds depth rather than leaning on one or two top stars exclusively.

While he may be absent, Reigns remains the undisputed face of WWE. His temporary break, if it comes to fruition, would be a short-term sacrifice for long-term gain. Allowing Reigns time to recuperate while showcasing WWE’s future would only strengthen the company for his eventual return. And when he does re-emerge, the novelty of The Tribal Chief will be refreshed, ready to reclaim his rightful spot at the top.