The Royal Rumble is only a few weeks away and it’s been confirmed that Roman Reigns will be defending his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at the big event. The Tribal Chief will face one of his toughest challenges yet as he’s currently set to defend the belt against Randy Orton, AJ Styles and LA Knight in a fatal four way match.

Dave Meltzer noted on Wrestling Observer Radio that the original plan was for Roman Reigns and Randy Orton to face off in a singles match. However, WWE didn’t want Randy Orton to get beat, so AJ Styles and LA Knight were added to the match with the idea being that one of them can take the pin.

“The actual deal here is that… the original idea was Roman (Reigns) and Randy Orton for the Rumble.

“Essentially there were parties involved who did not want to beat Randy Orton this early and just felt that there’s money to be made with Randy Orton and Roman in a program at some point, but it’s too soon to do it. But LA Knight just got beat and AJ (Styles) isn’t strong enough… I think AJ is the guy they probably would’ve wanted because Roman can beat him.

“The basic gist was that AJ gives them someone they can beat, LA gives them someone they can beat.”

In addition to his three opponents at the Royal Rumble several big names are chasing Roman Reigns right now as The Rock recently returned to tease a match with The Tribal Chief, and Cody Rhodes obviously still wants to finish the story. One way or another the road to WrestleMania is sure to be interesting for Roman Reigns.

Stay tuned for updates.

H/T WrestleTalk.com