When you think of Roman Reigns, it’s hard not to see the imposing figure of “The Tribal Chief,” the dominant champion of WWE. However, Roman’s journey to this persona hasn’t just been about in-ring talent. It’s also about personal growth, transformation, and a carefully crafted image that resonated both inside and outside the ring.
The Early Days: A WWE Superstar in the Making
In the beginning, Roman Reigns wasn’t the Roman Reigns we know today. When he made his debut as part of The Shield in 2012, he wore the familiar blue contact lenses—a decision made at the request of none other than WWE’s chairman, Vince McMahon. Vince, ever the perfectionist when it comes to branding, wanted Roman to have a distinct, larger-than-life look. The blue eyes, along with his muscular build and imposing presence, helped Roman stand out as a potential top star in WWE.
But as we all know, the world of WWE is ever-evolving, and so was Roman’s character. While the blue lenses may have helped him with his early image, it was clear that something more personal was coming for Roman—something deeper than just appearance.
A Personal Battle and a Shift in Character
Roman’s personal journey took a dramatic turn in 2018 when he announced to the WWE Universe that he had been battling leukemia. This was a heart-wrenching moment for fans and a reminder that beyond the glitz and glam of professional wrestling, these athletes are human beings with their own personal struggles.
During his hiatus, Roman made the decision to remove his blue contact lenses, symbolizing the start of a new chapter in his life. This wasn’t just about his health—this was about reclaiming his own identity. The removal of the lenses marked a shift in his persona, showing fans that Roman was more authentic than ever before.
The Return of Roman Reigns: A New Look and a New Attitude
In 2020, Roman Reigns returned to WWE at SummerSlam, and this wasn’t just the return of a former champion—it was the return of a changed man, both inside and outside the ring. His physical appearance had also undergone changes, with one of the most noticeable transformations being his teeth. Previously, Roman had gaps between his front teeth, a feature that was a part of his rugged look. However, after his return, the gaps were gone, and Roman’s smile was more polished than before.
This was no coincidence. Just as his character had grown and evolved over time, so had his appearance. In many ways, Roman’s new smile symbolized his own transformation from being a face-of-the-company type to “The Tribal Chief”—a persona that demanded respect and instilled fear in his rivals.
The transformation wasn’t just physical—it was mental. Roman’s decision to embrace his heritage, his role as the head of the table, and his desire to lead the Samoan Dynasty in WWE was a direct reflection of his personal growth. He was no longer just the wrestler fans loved or hated. He was now an untouchable leader, a character who ruled with an iron fist.
Roman Reigns Today: A Complete Transformation
Today, Roman Reigns is a three-time WWE Universal Champion and one of the most dominant forces in professional wrestling. But his transformation goes beyond just his look or his in-ring ability—it’s about how he has reinvented himself as a brand. The blue lenses were replaced with his genuine eyes, the gaps in his teeth were filled, and his attitude has become more refined, even as his character has grown more ruthless.
Roman Reigns has proven that in WWE, transformation is key to longevity. The changes he’s undergone—both physical and psychological—have solidified his place as one of the most compelling figures in WWE history.
His journey reminds us all that change is not just about appearance—it’s about embracing who you are, overcoming challenges, and evolving to meet the demands of the world around you.
Conclusion
Roman Reigns’ makeover—from the blue lenses to the polished smile, from battling leukemia to becoming “The Tribal Chief”—is a testament to the power of transformation. It’s about owning who you are and using that authenticity to dominate both in the ring and in life. Roman’s evolution is not just an example of physical change; it’s a reminder that reinvention and personal growth are key to success, both in WWE and beyond.
