Shocking and heartbreaking news arrived on Monday's episode of "WWE Raw." Roman Reigns (Joe Anoa'i) announced that leukemia he'd previously beat into remission, years ago, has returned. With that, he also informed everyone he'd be stepping away from the ring to be with his family as he fights this battle. He also surrendered the WWE Universal Championship. Here are some of the supportive reactions from Reigns' WWE superstar colleagues.
Matt Hardy (N/A)
Hardy has been a part of the business for quite some time, and knows how much it takes. He recently had to retire due to his own injury, so based on his message, he knows a lot about the difficulty in stepping away.
An amazing human being, an incredible performer & a man I’m proud to be friends with. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family. Get well soon, champ! #ThankYouRoman https://t.co/jL1Q5dVvzs
— #WOKEN, yet #BROKEN, Matt Hardy (@MATTHARDYBRAND) October 23, 2018
Mike Kanellis (205 Live)
Kanellis recently made his debut on 205 Live with Maria Kanellis. He summed up a lot of people's thoughts. He describes Roman's overall attitude, and how his peers view him in the locker room.
Roman is one of the nicest people I’ve ever had the privilege to share a locker room with. We all knew he was the locker room leader and we all aspired to be like him. Come back stronger than ever my friend #ThankYouRoman @WWERomanReigns
— Mike Kanellis (@RealMikeBennett) October 23, 2018
Sami Zayn ('Raw')
Even though he plays a heel regularly, Zayn can also step out of character. He wished his colleague all the best in beating leukemia this second time around.
I'm overseas and I just heard the terrible news about @WWERomanReigns and his battle with Leukemia. Totally shocked. Uce, you are a tough bastard and a true fighter, and you will beat this.
— Sami Zayn (@SamiZayn) October 23, 2018
Lots of love.
Johnny Gargano (NXT)
In NXT, Gargano regularly took on the role of the underdog. His sentiments toward Reigns reflect how much of a superhero Gargano sees his colleague as.
Our job gives us the ability to portray larger than life characters who possess super human qualities and characteristics.
— Johnny Gargano (@JohnnyGargano) October 23, 2018
After hearing his story it's very apparent that Joe Anoa'i is just as much of a superhero as "Roman Reigns" is.#ThankYouRoman
Karl Anderson ('SmackDown Live')
Anderson has had several in-ring confrontations with Roman. He also knows him quite well backstage. His tweet in support of the former Universal Champion probably reflects what most of the locker room feels with regard to the news.
About to board my flight to Newark and hearing news about my #GoodBrother and one of the hardest working, strongest brothers I know @WWERomanReigns , got a pit in my stomach.
— Karl Anderson (@KarlAndersonWWE) October 23, 2018
My family throwing so many prayers at you..
Love you bro.