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Oba Femi has emerged as one of WWE’s biggest breakout stars in 2026. After a dominant run in NXT, he quickly established himself on the main roster. His momentum reached another level when he defeated Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 42. Although that rivalry currently sits on hold, WWE now faces an important challenge. The company must find fresh opponents who can continue Femi’s rise toward the top of the roster. This highlights seven potential feuds that could shape the rest of Femi’s year. Each rivalry offers a different challenge and could help develop new aspects of his character. Some opponents would test his physical abilities. Others would challenge his promotional skills and mental toughness. First would be Drew McIntyre as an ideal rival. McIntyre has remained absent from WWE television since his loss to Jacob Fatu at WrestleMania 42. Therefore, he needs a major storyline when he returns.
His size, strength, and intensity make him one of the few wrestlers who can physically match Femi. Furthermore, a feud between McIntyre and Femi would feel fresh. Many WWE stars have already faced each other multiple times. However, these two have never crossed paths in a major program. Their matches could deliver hard-hitting action while giving both performers a meaningful storyline. Since both men possess strong fan support, WWE could stretch the rivalry over several months. Another intriguing option involves Randy Orton. Like McIntyre, Orton has the experience and credibility to elevate younger talent. The veteran remains one of WWE’s most respected performers. Consequently, WWE only uses him when a storyline carries major significance. A program with Femi would fit that description. Orton’s in-ring intelligence and microphone skills could help Femi grow as a complete performer. In addition, Orton has spent years working with powerhouse wrestlers.
That experience could create compelling matches and dramatic storytelling. The feud would also present a classic battle between an established legend and a rising star. CM Punk represents a completely different challenge. Unlike McIntyre and Orton, Punk relies heavily on psychology and verbal warfare. As a result, he could force Femi outside his comfort zone. Femi has built his reputation through dominance and intimidation. He rarely needs lengthy promos to establish his presence. However, Punk excels at getting inside opponents’ heads. Therefore, a feud between the two could strengthen Femi’s speaking abilities. WWE often values microphone skills as much as wrestling ability. This rivalry could help Femi reach another level in his development.
This also highlights Royce Keys as a long-term rival. Both stars debuted on the main roster around the same period. Additionally, they share many qualities that appeal to WWE audiences. Keys possesses impressive size, strength, and in-ring experience. Because of those similarities, WWE could build a rivalry resembling the historic competition between John Cena and Randy Orton. Rather than ending after a single program, the feud could continue for years. Every encounter would add another chapter to their growing rivalry. Carmelo Hayes offers a very different matchup. Although Hayes and Femi spent time in NXT, they have only shared the ring once. That appearance came during a Fatal 4-Way match several weeks ago.
Hayes relies on speed, agility, and athleticism. Meanwhile, Femi thrives through power and physical dominance. Consequently, the matchup creates a classic David-versus-Goliath dynamic. Both competitors continue chasing their first world championship opportunities. Therefore, WWE has a natural foundation for future conflict. Unlike many rivalries, this feud would not require personal hatred. Instead, mutual respect could drive the story. Since both performers currently work as fan favorites, they could compete to prove who deserves the spotlight. Roman Reigns remains one of the most intriguing possibilities. Femi calls himself “The Ruler,” while Reigns carries the nickname “The Tribal Chief.” Therefore, the storyline almost writes itself. WrestleMania appears to be the ideal stage. Reigns has helped elevate numerous stars throughout his career. A victory over someone of his stature could cement Femi’s place among WWE’s elite performers.
Finally, Solo Sikoa rounds out the list. His connection to The MFTs creates several storytelling opportunities. Instead of facing only Sikoa, Femi would battle multiple threats. Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga would provide additional obstacles. Each competitor brings a different wrestling style. Talla offers tremendous size. Sikoa delivers power and aggression. Meanwhile, Tama contributes versatility. Therefore, Femi would face a variety of challenges within one storyline. This concludes that any of these seven feuds could help shape Femi’s future. Whether WWE chooses veterans, fellow rising stars, or established main-event talent, each rivalry offers valuable opportunities. Most importantly, every option could strengthen Femi’s position as one of WWE’s next franchise players
Author Profile
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Bradley Walker serves as the Director of Operations for NGSC Sports, bringing extensive experience across collegiate, professional, and amateur athletics. His coverage spans USF Athletics, including football, baseball, lacrosse, and softball, as well as University of Tampa baseball.
Bradley also provides coverage of minor league baseball with the Clearwater Threshers and Major League Baseball with the Tampa Bay Rays. On the national stage, he covers college football bowl games and conference championship matchups, along with premier golf events across the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and LPGA Tour.
In addition to his reporting work, Bradley is the play-by-play announcer for Pinellas Park High School Patriots football, lending his voice and insight to Friday night lights.
He is also an active podcast host and contributor, serving as a co-host on the P&W Sports Report and hosting The Walker Report, where he delivers in-depth sports analysis, interviews, and coverage across multiple levels of competition.
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