Is Roman Reigns truly the best? That's the question on everyone's mind, especially considering the high praise he's received. John Cena calls him the GOAT, and even Triple H compares him to the legendary Undertaker. But what does the Tribal Chief himself think?
During a Fanatics merchandise signing, Reigns was put on the spot. He was asked to stop the interviewer when a wrestler better than him was named. His initial reaction? A dismissive grin and a wave, as if to say, 'Bring it on!'
The names started flying: Bron Breakker, Seth Rollins, Cody Rhodes. Reigns remained unfazed. Even when LA Knight was mentioned, he barely reacted, suppressing a smile. But then came the name that stopped him dead in his tracks: Ric Flair. Reigns immediately broke character, pointing and declaring, "Ric Flair."
And this is the part most people miss... Flair's legacy is built on an unparalleled work ethic and in-ring excellence. Historian Tim Hornbaker, in Flair's 2023 biography, called him "the Last Real World Champion," a testament to his relentless travel and consistent high-caliber matches. Flair defended his NWA World Championship across the globe, wrestling marathon matches more than 300 nights a year!
Think about that for a moment. Imagine the physical and mental toll. Yet, Flair's performances rarely faltered, whether facing Harley Race, Dusty Rhodes, or Ricky Morton. He had the unique ability to make every match feel like a high-stakes battle, keeping fans on the edge of their seats while simultaneously elevating his opponents. Younger stars, like Lex Luger and Nikita Koloff, looked like seasoned pros thanks to Flair's masterful craftsmanship.
In a way, Reigns has mirrored that excellence, elevating several wrestlers to world-championship caliber in recent years. But Reigns' reaction speaks volumes. Despite being "The Head of the Table," even he acknowledges that Ric Flair is still "The Man."
But here's where it gets controversial... Is it fair to compare eras? Wrestling has evolved, and styles have changed. Reigns' dominance in the modern era is undeniable, but Flair's impact on the industry is historic.
What do you think? Do you agree with Reigns' assessment? Who do you consider the greatest of all time, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!