A few days ago, Karl Anderson revealed one of the most memorable backstage scenes with Roman Reigns. As Anderson retells it, one of their fellow superstars started screaming about flight plans during a trip with WWE. Anderson remembers that Reigns was not shy, he approached the person at baggage claim and laid down the law with a very basic, no-nonsense ultimatum: get it written into your contract or shut up.
This anecdote does not only point out the direct personality of Reigns. It brings out the truth that not every WWE performer does so in style. Some names are elite and are flown privately but others do not have such privileges and deal with normal commercial fares and accommodations. Many athletes pay out of pocket to travel, particularly across time zones and abroad, and that can be a burden even to veteran professionals.
Reigns draws the line on public complaints
Reportedly, Anderson told this story when he appeared in the podcast episode of the podcast called Stories with Brisco and Bradshaw. There, he wrote that Reigns literally said it at baggage claim, indicating that the constant complaining without contractual support was not tolerated. It was not supposed to be evil, Anderson stressed, it was a practical thing. The message by Roman is that flying in style is important so, get it negotiated officially, rather than moaning on the way there.
The followers who have been listening are aware that Reigns has changed to traveling on a private jet as his commitments and health issues have increased. With the regular international events, matches, and WWE premium live events, comfort and speed were no longer negotiable. That clause in the contract will enable him to fly out, do the performance and come back almost immediately.
This narrative speaks volumes of how Reigns feels about accountability and professionalism. He does not like to whine in public, and still more so when there are alternatives. His leadership was shown through being so candid. Others who were observing got to know that in case you want special treatment, do not expect it to be free.