Last Month’s Ranking: No. 5
Last Month’s Segments: The Original Tribal Chief has been trying to get his hands on his real-life cousin Solo Sikoa for months, eager to face him in a one-on-one match, though Sikoa has made it clear he’s not interested. The new Bloodline leader defeated the former World Champion at Crown Jewel in a tag team match, serving as a catalyst for the buildup to WarGames at Survivor Series.
In the weeks leading up to the event, Reigns and his cousins, Jimmy and Jey Uso, were searching for teammates for Survivor Series. After finally convincing OG Bloodline member Sami Zayn to rejoin their team, the good guys were still in need of a fifth member to complete the qualifications for the 5-on-5 match. In a shocking twist, the returning “Wise Man,” WWE Hall of Famer Paul Heyman, introduced the fifth member for the OG Bloodline team: none other than the original “Paul Heyman Guy,” CM Punk.
Reigns shares an extensive history with Punk, as the former World Champion served as a mercenary for Punk during his debut. This made for absolutely extraordinary television leading up to the 38th annual Survivor Series event.
Survivor Series In-Ring Performance: Upon entering the ring, Reigns looked spectacular, scaling the WarGames cage (after Sikoa attempted to lock him out with his own chain) and hitting a diving crossbody on Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Jacob Fatu, Bronson Reed, and Solo Sikoa. Even while focused on his offense, Reigns ensured the story of the match remained intact. At one point, Reigns helped each of his teammates to their feet—except Punk—adding tension to their dynamic. This seemed to be a response to Punk pushing Reigns aside (similar to Candice LeRae in her match) to enter the match before him, upsetting the Original Tribal Chief.
Reigns continued to dominate, landing a low blow on Fatu and delivering a massive spear to Solo. The Head of the Table secured the win after all of his teammates (Sami Zayn, Jimmy and Jey Uso, and CM Punk) surrounded Sikoa, allowing each to land a shot on him. Punk hit the Go to Sleep on Solo, and Reigns finished the match with a bone-rattling spear, earning the elusive pinfall victory. It was an outstanding way to end Survivor Series.