“I Was Sink or ”Swim”—Solo Sikoa Breaks Silence on WWE’s Boldest Move of His Career

Solo Sikoa was thrust into the spotlight in one of WWE’s most daring storylines. After Cody Rhodes dethroned Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, the youngest Uso shockingly took over The Bloodline and claimed the mantle of The Tribal Chief.

But unlike Roman, who earned the role through dominance, Sikoa’s rise came in the form of seizing the throne while Reigns was absent. Fans were divided—was he worthy of such a responsibility, or was WWE rushing the storyline?

When Roman Reigns finally returned at SummerSlam 2024, he stunned the world by siding with Cody Rhodes, saving him from the wrath of “The Street Champion.” That moment marked the beginning of the end for Sikoa’s run as Tribal Chief.

Solo Sikoa Opens Up on Pressure of Filling Roman’s Shoes

In a recent interview with TV Insider, Solo admitted just how overwhelming the role was. WWE had thrown him into the deep end at a time when the company desperately needed someone to carry the Bloodline storyline forward.

“I’m in the deep end. I was thrown into the deep waters, where it was like sink or swim. After the first year, I’ve been swimming,” Sikoa said. “I was in the room with Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman, just sitting under that learning tree. Then when it became my time to shine, the company gave me the opportunity with the Tribal Chief character, and I made it work the best I could. I think I did a great job.”

And fans seem to agree—despite the controversy, Sikoa earned respect for stepping up when WWE needed him most.

The End of an Era

Sikoa’s Tribal Chief run ultimately came to a close when Roman Reigns defeated him in a brutal Tribal Combat during WWE RAW’s blockbuster Netflix debut.

Whether loved or hated, Solo Sikoa proved he wasn’t afraid to swim in the deep waters of WWE’s main event scene.