How long has Roman Reigns held the Universal Title?
Roman Reigns, a professional wrestler known for his imposing presence and charismatic performances, has been a staple in the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) universe for years. One of the most significant milestones in his career has been holding the Universal Title, a prestigious championship that signifies the ultimate wrestling authority. But how long has Roman Reigns held this coveted title, and what does it mean for his legacy in the wrestling world?
Roman Reigns first captured the Universal Title on October 25, 2015, during WWE’s Night of Champions event. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable run that would span over two years. Reigns’ reign as the Universal Champion was a mix of triumphs and controversies, as he faced numerous challenges and opponents throughout his tenure.
During his first title reign, Roman Reigns successfully defended the Universal Title against a variety of high-profile wrestlers, including Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, and Triple H. His ability to consistently defeat top contenders solidified his status as a dominant force in the WWE. However, Reigns’ reign was not without its fair share of criticism. Many fans and wrestling analysts accused him of being a “face” (a character that is supposed to be the hero) despite his heel persona (a character that is supposed to be the villain). This discrepancy in character portrayal led to a divide among wrestling fans, with some supporting Reigns and others opposing him.
On June 18, 2017, Roman Reigns lost the Universal Title to Samoa Joe at WWE’s Great Balls of Fire event. This defeat marked the end of his first title reign, which lasted for 728 days. Reigns’ first title reign was a significant achievement, as it allowed him to showcase his in-ring skills and build a strong character.
After a brief hiatus, Roman Reigns returned to the ring and reclaimed the Universal Title on December 17, 2017, during WWE’s Royal Rumble event. This marked the beginning of his second title reign, which would last for an impressive 545 days. During this period, Reigns continued to face off against top wrestlers, including Brock Lesnar, Braun Strowman, and Drew McIntyre, further solidifying his status as a top contender.
Reigns’ second title reign was also marked by a mix of triumphs and controversies. While he successfully defended the Universal Title against several high-caliber opponents, he once again faced criticism for his character portrayal and the perceived lack of a heel persona. Despite the criticism, Reigns’ ability to maintain the Universal Title for such an extended period speaks to his resilience and dedication to the sport.
On June 12, 2020, Roman Reigns lost the Universal Title to Drew McIntyre at WWE’s Great American Bash event. This defeat marked the end of his second title reign, which was his longest and most successful run as the Universal Champion. Reigns’ second title reign allowed him to further establish his legacy as one of the greats in WWE history.
In total, Roman Reigns has held the Universal Title for 1,273 days, making him one of the longest-reigning Universal Champions in WWE history. His ability to maintain the title for such an extended period is a testament to his talent, determination, and the support of his fans. As Roman Reigns continues to evolve as a wrestler and character, his legacy as a Universal Champion will undoubtedly remain a significant part of his career.
