Credit: WWE.com
Roman Reigns stands as one of the last WWE superstars personally hand-picked by Vince McMahon to lead the company’s future. Recently, on Stephanie McMahon’s What’s Your Story? podcast, Reigns shared insightful details about his relationship with the former WWE Chairman, highlighting a dynamic that was notably different from legends like Hulk Hogan, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, and The Rock.
A Different Kind of Bond Between The Tribal Chief and Vince McMahon
Roman Reigns described his working relationship with Vince McMahon as an evolving process where they had to “learn each other’s ways.” Unlike past WWE icons who often enjoyed close, long-standing ties with McMahon, Reigns acknowledged he was the youngest of the top stars groomed under McMahon’s reign and didn’t receive the same amount of direct time or personal mentorship early in his career.
“That’s who I cut my teeth negotiating with, doing business with your dad,” Reigns said, referring to Vince McMahon. “I’m not intimidated by anybody anymore. There were times where I had to get used to him, and we had to learn each other’s ways. But I’m the youngest of all his top guys, so I didn’t have that relationship like a lot of the other guys were afforded at the time.”
Despite the limited personal time with McMahon compared to legends like Hogan or The Rock, Reigns noted he absorbed “as much knowledge as I could,” often taking lessons from Vince’s playbook unconsciously. He even implied McMahon may not realize how deeply some of his advice has influenced Reigns’ career approach and business mindset.
Learning from the WWE Patriarch’s Business Approach
Reigns also revealed the key principle he gleaned from McMahon about staying “ahead of the curve but not too far ahead.” This mindset has helped him carve out a modern legacy while respecting WWE’s traditions and fan expectations. It’s this balanced approach that ushered in his groundbreaking “Tribal Chief” persona in 2020, which marked a turning point in his career and public perception.
A WWE insider who has witnessed Reigns’ close circles conveyed to us:
“Roman has always been sharp about combining respect for what Vince built with his own vision. That’s why even with fewer one-on-one moments, he’s managed to carry the company’s torch in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.”
The Evolution of Reigns’ Role Post-McMahon Era
Since Vince McMahon’s exit amid serious legal and corporate controversies, Roman Reigns has emerged as WWE’s undisputed top star, embodying the company’s highest profile and storytelling apex. Reigns has stated he will “always be a WWE Superstar,” integrating lessons from McMahon with his personal identity and ambitions.
Looking ahead, Reigns is set to defend his title at the WWE Clash in Paris PLE against Bronson Reed, proving the continued relevance and strength of his leadership role within the company.
Backstage Perspective: Respect Amid Transition
Sources close to WWE maintain that while Roman Reigns’ relationship with Vince McMahon was more businesslike than familial, it was also marked by mutual respect and professionalism. One backstage veteran shared:
“Vince saw the potential in Roman early on and pushed him hard. Roman pushed back and challenged Vince’s ideas in constructive ways, which sometimes led to friction but ultimately forged one of the most compelling WWE characters in years.”
Why Roman Reigns’ Journey with Vince McMahon Matters
Roman Reigns exemplifies the complex give-and-take between WWE’s legendary creator and its modern-day face. He inherited McMahon’s business acumen and storytelling foundation but adapted it to today’s wrestling landscape navigating fan backlash, evolving character work, and corporate shakeups.
As Reigns continues to lead WWE forward without Vince McMahon’s direct involvement, his reflections on their unique relationship offer valuable insight into how wrestling legends are made and molded behind the scenes.