The Bloodline: The Rise & Dominance In WWE

“The Bloodline” is a prominent professional wrestling tag team in WWE’s SmackDown brand, known for their villainous persona. Led by Roman Reigns, a member of the esteemed Anoa’i family, the team also features his real-life cousin, Solo Sikoa. The group’s strategic decisions are guided by their manager, Paul Heyman.

Initially, The Bloodline was a larger stable, including Reigns’ cousins, The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso), and Sami Zayn as an honorary member. However, the original group saw a shift in June 2023 when The Usos departed, and Zayn’s honorary membership ended in January 2023.

The formation of The Bloodline was officially announced in July 2021, following a feud between Reigns and Jey Uso in late 2020. This feud saw Jimmy Uso return from an injury and get involved. Reigns, the “Tribal Chief” and “Head of the Table,” currently holds the prestigious title of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. He is in his fourth and second respective reigns of the WWE and Universal championships, boasting the longest reign of the latter.

The Usos, Reigns’ cousins, were also recognized as the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions until their loss at WrestleMania 39. They held both the Raw and SmackDown tag team championships simultaneously in their third and fifth respective reigns, setting the record for the longest reign and the longest male tag team title reign in WWE history.

The Bloodline WWE Bio/Wiki Table

Tag Team Name The Bloodline
Current Members Roman Reigns (Leader), Solo Sikoa, Paul Heyman (Manager)
Former Members Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Sami Zayn (Honorary)
Billed Heights Roman Reigns: 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m), Solo Sikoa: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
Combined Billed Weight 515 lb (234 kg)
Debut July 9, 2021
Years Active 2021–Present

The Bloodline WWE Background & Early Development

The Bloodline

The roots of “The Bloodline” run deep, tracing back to the esteemed Anoa’i family’s long-standing relationship with manager Paul Heyman. This association began in 1988 when Heyman, then known as Paul E. Dangerously, managed The Samoan SWAT Team, which included Rikishi (Fatu at the time), Rosey (Big Matty Smalls), Samu, and Sam Fatu (The Samoan Savage). Years later, Heyman would introduce Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Dean Ambrose as The Shield, serving as mercenaries for then-WWE Champion CM Punk in 2012.

Each member of “The Bloodline” has a rich history predating the formation of the stable. Roman Reigns, son of Sika Anoa’i, began his professional wrestling career in 2010 at WWE’s former developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), under the ring name Leakee. Following FCW’s transition to NXT in 2012, Reigns adopted his current name and had a brief tenure in NXT before moving to the main roster later that year. As part of The Shield, and later as a solo competitor, Reigns has secured multiple world championships since the group’s dissolution in 2014.

The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso) and Solo Sikoa, sons of Rikishi, also have notable wrestling careers. The Usos debuted in 2009 in FCW, earning the FCW Tag Team Championships before transitioning to WWE’s main roster in 2010. Managed by Tamina Snuka, they have won numerous tag team championships. Their alliance with Sami Zayn began during a victorious six-man tag team match against The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor) and Corey Graves on an April 2014 episode of NXT. Sikoa, the newest member of the family to enter the wrestling scene, made his debut in 2018 and signed with WWE in 2021. After a year in NXT, he was called up to the main roster in September 2022.

The Bloodline WWE History

The Usos’ Clash with The Shield (2013-2014)

During 2013 and 2014, The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso) found themselves in a heated rivalry with The Shield, a faction consisting of Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Dean Ambrose. This feud was marked by intense matches and high stakes, as both teams sought to establish their dominance in the WWE. The Usos, known for their high-flying maneuvers and synchronized attacks, were a stark contrast to The Shield’s methodical and ruthless approach. Despite the fierce competition, this feud laid the groundwork for future alliances and rivalries within the WWE.

Period of Occasional Collaborations (2015-2020)

Between 2015 and 2020, The Usos and Roman Reigns found themselves on the same side of the ring on several occasions. Despite their past rivalry, they discovered common ground and teamed up to face various opponents. These sporadic alliances showcased the strong familial bond between Reigns and The Usos, hinting at a more permanent team formation in the future. During this period, they achieved significant victories, further solidifying their status as formidable competitors in the WWE.

The Emergence of The Bloodline (2020-2021)

The year 2020 marked the beginning of a new era in WWE with the formation of “The Bloodline.” This stable, led by Roman Reigns, brought together The Usos and Reigns in a more formal and strategic alliance. The formation of The Bloodline was a strategic move that emerged from a feud between Reigns and Jey Uso in late 2020. This feud marked a turning point in WWE’s narrative, leading to the official formation of the team in July 2021. The team’s evolution has been marked by various shifts in membership, with the Usos and Sami Zayn being notable past members. The Bloodline has since become a dominant force in WWE, with Reigns leading the group as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Reign of Champions (2021-2022)

The year 2021 marked a significant milestone for “The Bloodline” as it saw its members ascend to the pinnacle of WWE. Roman Reigns, the leader of the group, held the prestigious title of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, a testament to his dominance in the ring. Simultaneously, The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso) held the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and skill. This period of championship reigns solidified “The Bloodline” as one of the most formidable factions in WWE history.

The Inclusion of Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa (2022-2023)

In 2022, “The Bloodline” saw the induction of two new members: Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa. Zayn, an honorary member, brought a new dynamic to the group with his unique wrestling style and charismatic persona. Sikoa, a real-life cousin of Roman Reigns, further strengthened the familial ties within the group. His addition to the team marked his rise in WWE, showcasing his potential as a future star. However, Zayn’s membership ended in January 2023, marking a shift in the group’s dynamics.

The Bloodline Civil War (2023-Present)

The year 2023 marked the beginning of a tumultuous period for “The Bloodline,” often referred to as the “Bloodline Civil War.” This internal conflict saw the departure of The Usos in June 2023, causing a significant shift in the group’s dynamics. The reasons behind this split are complex and multifaceted, involving personal and professional disagreements. Despite this setback, “The Bloodline” continues to be a significant force in WWE, with Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa at the helm. The ongoing civil war within the group adds a new layer of intrigue to their narrative, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

The Bloodline WWE Members

The Bloodline

Roman Reigns

“The Bloodline” is a formidable professional wrestling faction in WWE, currently led by Roman Reigns. Reigns, a founding member, joined the group on July 9, 2021, and has since been a dominant force in the WWE, holding the title of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. His leadership and in-ring prowess have been instrumental in the group’s success.

Solo Sikoa

Solo Sikoa, a real-life cousin of Roman Reigns, joined “The Bloodline” on September 3, 2022. His addition to the team has added a new dynamic and further strengthened the familial ties within the group. Sikoa’s raw power and agility have made him a valuable asset to the team.

Paul Heyman

Paul Heyman, a seasoned wrestling manager, has been with “The Bloodline” since its inception on July 9, 2021. His strategic insights and experience in the wrestling industry have been crucial in guiding the group’s decisions and actions.

Sami Zayn

Sami Zayn was an honorary member of “The Bloodline,” joining the group on May 27, 2022. However, his tenure was short-lived, as he was expelled from the group on January 28, 2023, after attacking Reigns with a steel chair at Royal Rumble.

The Usos

The Usos, consisting of Jimmy Uso and Jey Uso, were founding members of “The Bloodline,” joining the group alongside Reigns on July 9, 2021. However, their association with the group ended in June 2023. Jimmy Uso was expelled from the group on June 2, 2023, for his actions against Reigns at Night of Champions. Jey Uso left the group on June 16, 2023, after rejecting Reigns and the opportunity to become the next Tribal Chief, choosing to side with Jimmy instead.

Championships and Accomplishments

CBS Sports Recognition

“The Bloodline” has been recognized by CBS Sports for their compelling storylines and intense rivalries. In 2020, the feud between Roman Reigns and Jey Uso was awarded the “Feud of the Year,” highlighting the emotional and physical intensity of their battles.

ESPN’s Best Storyline of the Year

In 2022, ESPN awarded “The Bloodline” and Sami Zayn the “Best Storyline of the Year.” This recognition underscores the captivating narratives and dramatic tension that the group has brought to WWE programming.

Pro Wrestling Illustrated Accolades

Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) named “The Bloodline” the “Faction of the Year” in 2022, a testament to their dominance and influence in professional wrestling. PWI also recognized individual members of the group in their annual PWI 500 rankings. In 2022, Roman Reigns topped the list, while Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa were ranked 45th, 147th, and 401st respectively. The Usos were also ranked as the top tag team in the PWI Tag Team 100 in 2022.

Sports Illustrated’s Wrestler of the Year

Roman Reigns’ exceptional performances in 2021 earned him the title of “Wrestler of the Year” by Sports Illustrated. This award further solidifies Reigns’ status as one of the top performers in professional wrestling.

WWE Championships and Accomplishments

“The Bloodline” has achieved significant success in WWE, with members holding various championships. Roman Reigns is the current WWE Champion and WWE Universal Champion, showcasing his dominance in the ring. The Usos have held both the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship and the WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship, demonstrating their exceptional teamwork. Solo Sikoa has held the NXT North American Championship, marking his rise in the wrestling industry. In 2021, Jey Uso won the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, further adding to the group’s list of accomplishments.

FAQs

Who are the members of “The Bloodline” in WWE?

The current members of “The Bloodline” are Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, and their manager, Paul Heyman.

When was “The Bloodline” formed?

“The Bloodline” was officially formed on July 9, 2021.

Who are the former members of “The Bloodline”?

The former members of “The Bloodline” include Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, and Sami Zayn (honorary).

What championships have “The Bloodline” members won?

Roman Reigns is the current WWE Champion and WWE Universal Champion. The Usos have held both the WWE Raw Tag Team Championship and the WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship. Solo Sikoa has held the NXT North American Championship.

Why did Sami Zayn leave “The Bloodline”?

Sami Zayn was kicked out of the group after he attacked Roman Reigns with a steel chair at Royal Rumble in January 2023.

Why did The Usos leave “The Bloodline”?

Jimmy Uso was expelled from the group for his actions against Reigns at Night of Champions in June 2023. Jey Uso left the group after rejecting Reigns and the opportunity to become the next Tribal Chief, choosing to side with Jimmy.

What are the billed heights of the current members of “The Bloodline”?

Roman Reigns is billed at 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) and Solo Sikoa is billed at 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m).

What is the combined billed weight of “The Bloodline”?

The combined billed weight of “The Bloodline” is 515 lb (234 kg).

Who manages “The Bloodline”?

“The Bloodline” is managed by Paul Heyman.

What awards and recognitions has “The Bloodline” received?

“The Bloodline” has been recognized by several organizations. They were named “Faction of the Year” in 2022 by Pro Wrestling Illustrated, and their storyline with Sami Zayn was awarded “Best Storyline of the Year” by ESPN in 2022. Roman Reigns was also named “Wrestler of the Year” by Sports Illustrated in 2021.

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