This time last week WWE fans around the world assumed that Roman Reigns would be walking out of WrestleMania 34 with the Universal Championship, but that wasn’t the case as Brock Lesnar beat Reigns and retained the title on Sunday.
Dave Meltzer talked about the finish on Wrestling Observer Radio and noted that Roman was originally planned to win the belt, and the change was likely made over the last week or so.
“Roman Reigns was winning the championship. I’m not sure when that changed, but it was late,” Meltzer said. “It could have been in the last week or so. It was not at the last minute though.”
The writers and producers reportedly weren’t told about the finish, and the referee wasn’t told until he was in the ring.
There seem to be conflicting reports regarding Brock Lesnar’s new deal, as Sporting News is reporting that Lesnar signed a new multi-year contract, but Meltzer is reporting that Brock only signed a short term deal.
The deal will allow Lesnar to return to UFC for at least one fight, but it will be at least 6 months before Lesnar can fight again due to the USADA testing.
Paul Heyman’s contract is said to be linked with Brock’s so, Heyman also has a new deal with the company which is reportedly a short term deal.
It’s also been speculated that the finish of the match may have been changed because Vince McMahon wants to wait until the Greatest Royal Rumble before Brock drops the belt to Reigns.
If you use any of the quotes in this article please credit Wrestling Observer Radio with a H/T to Still Real To Us for the transcription.
