Roman Reigns is nearing the end of his filming schedule for the highly anticipated Street Fighter live-action movie, where he stars as the iconic character Akuma. The WWE superstar has been off television since the Clash in Paris event as he dedicates his time to this major Hollywood project, marking another significant crossover moment in his career.
Filming Timeline and WWE Absence
According to insider reports, production for the Street Fighter film began in early September 2025, with Reigns committed to approximately four weeks of filming. Sources suggest he will wrap up his scenes by the week of September 26, assuming the schedule stays on track. This timing explains his noticeable absence from WWE television following Clash in Paris and confirms he won’t be appearing during WWE’s ESPN debut show, despite teased surprises from Triple H.
A WWE insider revealed, “Roman’s been fully focused on delivering an intense performance for the film. The company’s been supportive, knowing his role in this project adds tremendous value to both WWE and Hollywood.” This sentiment aligns with WWE’s history of supporting talents branching out into mainstream entertainment.
Impact on WWE Storylines and Upcoming Appearances
Despite beginning his movie filming, Reigns’ exit from WWE storylines was not sudden or a permanent write-off. His return at Clash in Paris and participation in SummerSlam Night One where he teamed with Jey Uso to defeat Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed signaled ongoing involvement in key WWE angles heading toward the autumn season.
With filming commitments starting in September, WWE fans can expect to see more of Reigns in the coming weeks before he fully transitions to his Hollywood role. His next officially advertised WWE appearance is at Survivor Series: WarGames in November. Plans beyond that event remain flexible depending on filming schedules and WWE’s booking decisions.
A backstage source noted, “Roman’s absence is part of a carefully crafted plan. WWE wants to keep him relevant on-screen while letting him seize this prime Hollywood opportunity. Expect him back for Crown Jewel in Australia and definitely Survivor Series.”
The Street Fighter Movie: Cast and Context
The Street Fighter film represents a reboot of the popular Capcom video game franchise, scheduled for release in October 2026 by Paramount Pictures. Directed by Kitao Sakurai, the movie features an ensemble cast including other WWE star Cody Rhodes, Jason Momoa, Noah Centineo, and rapper Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson[3][4].
Roman Reigns plays Akuma, a fan-favorite fighter known for his fierce power and dark fighting style. Cody Rhodes takes on the role of Guile, creating an exciting link for WWE fans as both top-tier wrestlers bring their physicality and charisma to the project.
This venture continues WWE performers’ growing presence in mainstream entertainment. Reigns previously appeared alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, and now both he and Rhodes have major parts in a globally recognized franchise.
The synergy between the WWE and Hollywood projects has been mutually beneficial. One insider commented, “Having Roman and Cody in Street Fighter not only boosts the movie’s visibility but also elevates WWE’s brand across new audiences, creating a perfect cross-promotional scenario.”
What’s Next for Roman Reigns Post-Filming?
Once filming wraps up, Roman Reigns is expected to resume WWE appearances on television and at live events, potentially as soon as early October with the Crown Jewel event in Perth. Although his name wasn’t officially announced for the show, sources indicate it’s likely he’ll be involved in the build-up to major pay-per-views heading into year-end, particularly Survivor Series: WarGames.
His return will also fuel ongoing storylines, including his established rivalry with Seth Rollins and the Bloodline faction dynamics. WWE’s booking team appears set to capitalize on his renewed availability to maintain momentum through the critical fall and winter wrestling calendar.
A Strategic Crossroads for Roman Reigns
Roman Reigns balancing his WWE career with Hollywood projects highlights the expanding horizons for wrestling superstars today. His role as Akuma in Street Fighter further cements his status as a mainstream figure beyond the squared circle, while WWE continues to leverage his star power on their programming.
Both WWE and Roman Reigns’ camps are coordinating closely to ensure a smooth transition between his wrestling and acting commitments. As one WWE official put it, “Roman’s journey is a blueprint for how our top stars can thrive on multiple platforms bringing fresh energy to WWE and breaking new ground in entertainment.”
Fans and industry watchers alike will be eager to see how this dynamic phase unfolds for “The Tribal Chief” as he prepares to return from Hollywood for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to 2025 and beyond.