WWE News: Reigns On Replacing Cena In WWE India Tour; Jim Ross Taking New Japan Pro Wrestling Job?
World Wrestling Entertainment heavyweight champion Roman Reigns filled in for the injured John Cena during the company's live event in New Delhi, India last week.
Cena is still currently on rehab for a shoulder injury he sustained early this month. He has already undergone surgery for the said condition. Reigns recently spoke about his experience during the India tour and how he feels to be taking the place of one of professional wrestling's most iconic characters in recent years.
"It's a great honour," Reigns said in an interview with The Times of India (through WrestleZone). "John Cena has been the standard-bearer of professional wrestling for the past 10-12 years, and to follow in his footsteps is a great opportunity. I just want to give my best and represent my family and my people."
Reigns adds that while he only has well-wishes for Cena, he is still waiting for the opportunity for them to once again face each other inside the squared ring. Reigns will be defending his title at the 2016 Royal Rumble, which is scheduled to take place on January 24 at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida.
Meanwhile, former Monday Night RAW broadcast panelist and veteran combat sports broadcaster Jim Ross had at first denied rumors that he would be replacing Mauro Ranallo as the voice of the English language broadcast of New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Ranallo, who is also known for his stints as the play-by-play commentator for renowned prizefighting promotion companies such as PRIDE Fighting Championships and Strikeforce, and Showtime Championhsip Boxing, recently made his pro wrestling debut as SmackDown's lead commentator. He was the voice of New Japan Pro Wrestling, where he worked alongside UFC heavyweight contender and mixed martial arts veteran Josh Barnett.
In an earlier report by Sean Rueter for Cageside Seats, Ross shut down rumors about a "new deal," stating that people "jumped the gun" when the said piece of information began circulating.
However, in a Fox Sports report dated January 19, it was learned that Ross will be taking on the job, although not directly under New Japan Pro Wrestling as his contract is with AXS TV which airs the NJPW weekly program he is set to be on. He starts March 4.