Roman Reigns Hints At Ambrose's WWE Exit, Shocked By Shield Member's Decision

Roman Reigns – real name Joe Anoa’i – has revealed that it came as a shock when he heard about Dean Ambrose’s impending departure from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The news was confirmed by both Ambrose and WWE when the former Universal champion was away from the ring battling leukemia, which is now in remission.

Reigns returned to WWE after almost five months out and his first big wish was to bring Shield back together after it was disbanded following his announcement to take time off in October. His wish was fulfilled during Monday Night Raw earlier this week when Ambrose embraced his fellow members, Reigns and Seth Rollins.

Ambrose continues to be one of the most popular stars for his eccentric behavior in and out of the ring. The WWE despite confirming his departure have been trying to get him to re-sign, with multiple reports claiming that they had succeeded following the return of Reigns.

The former WWE and Intercontinental champion already rejected a long-term deal with a higher salary, which was then followed up with an offer of a better schedule as WWE chairman Vice McMahon was keen not to lose him. But Ambrose is said to be unhappy with the creative direction of his character.

Reigns admitted it was a major shock when he realized the news about his “good friend’s” departure was true and indicated that speculation about him making a U-turn on his decision was untrue by hinting that the plan to leave WWE was in the pipeline for many months.

"I think I actually read it on Twitter so I didn't take it too seriously," Reigns told reporters, as quoted by Sky Sports. "I've always known Ambrose and he likes to stay unpredictable and march to the beat of his own drum.”

"I know one thing, he just wants to be happy. He's kind of been preparing for when he doesn't have to rely on anybody. We've been lucky enough to be on a crazy roller-coaster ride over the last few years and secure ourselves. It still is a big shock and we haven't had much time to talk about it because we've been on the gas pedal since I've been back,” Reigns added. "It concerns me a bit – the last thing I want is for one of my good friends to leave but as long as he's happy and healthy we'll be good.”

Reigns, however, is not giving up and has previously indicated that he will work on Ambrose in order to convince him to remain with the WWE beyond April when his contract expires. As it currently stands, WrestleMania 35 or the RAW episode the day after will be Ambrose’s potentially last appearance in the WWE.

"We'll still talk all the time but this is WWE and you never know what's going to happen," he said.