Rikishi was one of the most relevant figures in the Attitude Era. His success, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, led him to become Intercontinental Champion and Tag Team Champion three times, with three different partners. A success cemented by his self-confidence and, of course, his dancing skills.
But do you know that Rikishi was all set to have his own version of the Bloodline? A Bloodline that features WWE superstars returning to the promotion. And yes, that’s absolutely true, as it was just recently revealed by a renowned insider.
Rikishi and The Bloodline that could’ve been
The WWE back in 2001 was as crazy as it could get. You had top-tier talent, unbelievable matches, as well as multiple factions to choose from. As it was the best time for a faction to flourish. And according to a classic ‘Observer Newsletter’ from 1/29/01, there were original plans for Rikishi to turn heel after being a babyface for a long time. The plan for the heel turn was for him to form a faction with family members, such as Matthew Anoa’i (Rosey) and Ekmo Fatu (Umaga). There were also plans for Afa and Sika to return to WWF and form a faction with Rikishi that could’ve been the WWE’s first-ever Bloodline.
But we all know now that it did not come to fruition. However, it will surely remain one of the biggest ‘What If’ in the minds of wrestling fans. Just imagine having the Rock join this faction and the scale of havoc they could’ve created in the WWE. Maybe it would’ve led DX to become active in 2001, rather than making their return in 2006 after disbanding in 2000.
Now with the second version of the Bloodline dominating the WWE, it would be fun to see who Roman Reigns manages to get on his side to face Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, and Tanga Loa. Maybe he will get his other cousins, such as Jacob Fatu to join him in the fight in WWE, or maybe, just maybe, Rikishi returns for one last run. Finally getting his own Bloodline like he was destined to be. With Roman Reigns, Jimmy and Jey Uso, and possibly Jacob Fatu, joining the ranks. That surely would be an interesting fight. Especially if the Final Boss returns as the Tribal Chief of the new Bloodline. What do you think? Should’ve WWE go ahead and created the first Bloodline back in 2001? Let us know in the comments.
