Roman Reigns reveals leukemia diagnosis, relinquishes Universal title

Roman Reigns opened tonight’s episode of Raw by announcing that he’s battling leukemia.

After missing this weekend’s house shows, Reigns came out at the start of the show and addressed the audience while using his real name. Reigns said he’s been living with leukemia for 11 years and, unfortunately, it’s back. Reigns said he’ll have to relinquish the Universal Championship.

Reigns said he wasn’t looking for sympathy or people to feel bad for him — because he has faith. He was diagnosed with leukemia when he was 22 years old, and while that was at the hardest time of his life, he was able to put it in remission quickly. Reigns said WWE was the team that gave him a chance then. He thanked the fans for always reacting to him and making his dreams come true.

Reigns said life throws you a curveball sometimes, and the best thing for him to do is to focus on his family and his health. But he clarified that this wasn’t a retirement speech.

“Because after I’m done whooping leukemia’s ass once again, I’m coming back home,” Reigns said. “And when I do, it’s not going to just be about titles and being on top. No, it’s about a purpose. I am coming back because I want to show all of you — the whole world. I want to show my family, my friends, my children, and my wife that when life throws a curveball at me, I am the type of man that will stand in that batter’s box — I will crowd the plate, I will choke up, and I will swing for the fences every single time.” 

Reigns said he’ll beat this, he’ll be back, and he’ll see everyone very, very soon. Reigns thanked the fans and told them he loves them. The fans chanted “Thank you Roman,” Reigns shook hands with them as he walked up the ramp, and he posed with Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose, who were visibly emotional.