Reigns: My ‘Unbeatable System’ Will Crush Punk at WM42

Reigns Declares ‘Unbeatable System’ Ahead of WrestleMania Showdown

Roman Reigns isn’t just walking into WrestleMania 42; he’s marching in with a declared ‘unbeatable system.’ Speaking on First Take, the reigning champion didn’t hold back, addressing his rivalry with CM Punk and asserting his dominance over the WWE landscape.

The conversation kicked off with a question about Reigns’ perceived jealousy of CM Punk’s connection with fans. Reigns clarified, stating he simply noted Punk’s ‘superpower’ of fan connectivity. He described Punk as a ‘journeyman’ with a long career, supported by die-hard fans, but questioned how modern fans can support someone like Punk, suggesting a lack of continuity in actions both in and out of the ring.

Reigns Defends His Legacy, Slams Punk’s Claims

Reigns pushed back against the idea that he’s a ‘Nepo baby,’ emphasizing his own hard-earned journey in WWE. He recalled times when fans didn’t support him, like the Royal Rumble in Philadelphia, highlighting that he went through the ‘grind’ for appreciation. He sees contradictions in CM Punk’s statements, pointing out that in today’s age of the internet, lies and inconsistencies are quickly exposed.

“It’s not 2012 anymore. The old CM Punk, that pipe bomb crap, it doesn’t line up because you have nerds all over the world picking it apart.”

The ‘Tribal Chief’ declared himself the only ‘real superstar’ in WWE, the only one paid like a top athlete, and the only one who can make such claims. He accused those who launch ‘slander campaigns’ of having an open platform but failing to ‘back it up’ in the real world.

WrestleMania 31: The Turning Point

Looking back at his extensive WrestleMania history, now heading into his eleventh appearance, Reigns pinpointed WrestleMania 31 as a life-changing moment. Though the match against Brock Lesnar didn’t end as he’d hoped with Seth Rollins cashing in, that night showed him the true importance of the WrestleMania main event.

He explained that after WrestleMania 31, the world saw him differently, recognizing him as a ‘legitimate superstar.’ He credited Brock Lesnar, calling him the ‘greatest combat athlete,’ and acknowledged using that platform as a ‘stepping stone’ that propelled him into a different stratosphere, where he has remained ever since.

‘Unbeatable System’ Developed Over Years

When asked about changes in his preparation and view of WrestleMania over his eleven appearances, Reigns stated everything has changed. He now has a system in place that he believes is ‘unbeatable,’ having left no stone unturned.

He contrasted this with Punk, suggesting Punk is on his second time doing this and has ‘no clue’ what he’s up against. Reigns asserted that his culture is different, built on being superstars in stadiums, not ‘little bingo halls.’ He firmly believes the business has grown because of him, putting WWE in positions for major media appearances on ESPN and Netflix, something he doesn’t believe CM Punk would have achieved.

Disrespect Ignites Fierce Response

The intensity of Reigns’ current demeanor was noted by the hosts, who asked if he felt forced to change. Reigns stated there was no change, but rather this is the result of being disrespected and people crossing the line. He feels the industry has become delusional about who is truly number one.

He admitted he’d rather be at peace, making money and spending time with his family. However, when people he considers ‘beneath’ him start talking, causing confusion in the world, he feels compelled to ‘smack them up.’ He specifically mentioned Punk bringing up his late father in their initial promo as a debt that needs settling.

“Receipts are meant to come. There’s a resolution that’s happening Sunday night… Run your mouth, promote, do your media.

That’s fine. But it’s all coming back. It’s all going to come full circle and we’re going to bust your ass for it.”

Future Challengers Identified

Despite his focus on CM Punk, Reigns acknowledged potential future opponents from the rising talent pool. He specifically mentioned Omos, and expressed admiration for younger stars like Trick Williams, Javon Evans, and Carmelo Hayes. He highlighted Hayes’ resiliency and success on SmackDown, predicting big things for him.

Stephen A. Smith, a host on First Take, expressed his enjoyment of Reigns’ passionate statements, even joking that he wished people disrespected him more so Reigns would continue to speak out. Smith also entertained the idea of becoming a manager or ‘mouthpiece’ for Reigns, should the ‘Tribal Chief’ ever request his services.

Reigns will face CM Punk at WrestleMania 42 this Sunday.

Source: Roman Reigns says he has an ‘unbeatable’ system heading into WrestleMania 42 w/ CM Punk | First Take (YouTube)