When fans and historians look back on the career of Solo Sikoa, they’ll likely point to Money in the Bank weekend as his ultimate coming-out party.
The once silent brute began the weekend at the end of SmackDown with a chilling promo that furthered his growing storyline with Roman Reigns while setting the table for his upcoming rivalry with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.
First to feel the wrath of his words was Reigns, who Sikoa cut straight to the bone by questioning Reigns’ authority and manhood.
“Roman Reigns was not man enough to defend our title at WrestleMania. He was not man enough to defend our legacy against Cody Rhodes and his legacy. Therefore, he shall no longer call himself The Tribal Chief because I’m The Tribal Chief now.”
In a scene reminiscent of a mafia drama, Sikoa, flanked by his new Bloodline, took his place at the head of the table, clutching the ula fala — the Samoan necklace symbolizing leadership worn by Reigns. He then turned his attention to The American Nightmare, saying “Cody Rhodes, I’m coming for you. And you will acknowledge me.”
At Money in the Bank, Sikoa led Tama Tonga and Jacob Fatu against Rhodes, Randy Orton, and Kevin Owens. Sikoa shined during his moments in the match before pinning Rhodes, showcasing a methodical style akin to Reigns’ while taunting the audience with his confidence.
Since taking over The Bloodline after Reigns’ departure following WrestleMania XL, Sikoa’s character has rapidly evolved, establishing him as one of the industry’s most compelling figures. Like a volcano, he exudes strength and poise yet holds the potential to erupt explosively and unpredictably at any moment.
As he eyes a potential showdown with Rhodes for WWE’s top prize at SummerSlam, Sikoa’s ascent could culminate in a championship win, setting the stage for a winner-takes-all clash with Reigns upon his return.
What’s next for Jey Uso?
Jey Uso emerged as the sentimental favorite at Money in the Bank after a poignant monologue on Raw last month. He shared a heartfelt story about his struggles with his family and expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support. He then declared his intention to reciprocate their love by seizing the opportunity to become Mr. Money in the Bank.
Unfortunately for “Main Event” Jey, it was not to be.
Despite another thrilling performance, Jey Uso fell short in the Money in the Bank ladder match, continuing his streak of unsuccessful attempts at singles glory. Interference from his brother Jimmy Uso thwarted Jey’s chances at winning the Undisputed WWE Championship and the Intercontinental Title. Additionally, at Backlash, Damian Priest retained the World Heavyweight Championship against Jey, who later failed to advance to the King of the Ring finals after a brutal defeat to Gunther.
Following his losses, it was speculated that Jey Uso might enter a storyline with Uncle Howdy and the Wyatt Sicks. However, after hilariously avoiding them on a recent episode of Raw, it seems WWE has different plans. If that’s the case, Jey could potentially reunite with his brother Jimmy and cousin Roman in the highly anticipated Bloodline versus Bloodline rivalry set to shake up WWE.
If this scenario unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how WWE crafts a reconciliation between Jey, Jimmy, and Reigns, especially considering Jey’s issues with Reigns. During a recent Raw promo, he verbally speared Reigns, labeling him a “manipulative scumbag.” Uso’s words, in WWE canon, suggest that their relationship remains strained, implying it could take a minute or two before he and Reigns resolve their differences and unite against the family’s new internal challenges.
Legacy of Legends: Rikishi remembers Sika of the Wild Samoans
As the Samoan Dynasty grieves the loss of one of its founding fathers, Pola’ivao Leati Sika Anoa’i, Rikishi Fatu dedicated a song to his uncle that he shared on social media.
“I wanted to honor you with a tribute song and let you know you will always be remembered as a cornerstone of our Aiga (family),” Rikishi wrote on X.
Uncle Sika, words cannot express how deeply saddened your passing has been not only for myself, but the entire family, as well as the wrestling community. You were one of the reasons why I began my wrestling journey and why our family is the most dominant and prolific family in… pic.twitter.com/mv2LDsWQKJ
— RIKISHI FATU (@TheREALRIKISHI) July 4, 2024
Titled “Sika’s Song,” Rikishi’s musical tribute covers several emotional points. He acknowledges Sika and his brother Afa, the Wild Samoans, as the foundation that the family was built on. The WWE Hall of Famer also reflects on the challenges his uncles faced when breaking into the business. Beyond being a wrestling legend, Rikishi describes Sika as more than just a wrestler and expresses gratitude for providing a life that the family could never have imagined.
“Uncle Sika, words cannot express how deeply saddened your passing has been not only for myself, but the entire family, as well as the wrestling community. You were one of the reasons why I began my wrestling journey and why our family is the most dominant and prolific family in wrestling history,” Rikishi wrote.