Roman Reigns kicked off Raw this week, and he announced that he was diagnosed with leukemia 11 years ago, and it’s back.
The Big Dog then announced that he was vacating the Universal Championship so he could take time off to focus on his health and his family.
Following Roman’s announcement, WWE issued the following statement on his status:
“STAMFORD, Conn., October 22, 2018 – Tonight on Monday Night Raw, Roman Reigns (aka Joe Anoa’i) announced that he is relinquishing the WWE Universal Championship and taking a leave of absence from WWE as he once again fights leukemia, which had been in remission since late 2008. Reigns is taking his battle with leukemia public in an effort to raise awareness and funds for research in order to advance cures for the disease.”
During Raw, WWE announced a new champion will be crowned when Braun Strowman and Brock Lesnar face off in a singles match with the vacant title on the line at Crown Jewel.
