Roman Reigns opens up about WWE fans' newfound respect after leukaemia hell

ROMAN REIGNS revealed that the WWE fans’ newfound support for him during his battle with leukaemia was very vital on his road to recovery.

WWE: Roman Reigns discusses his return to Raw

Reigns shocked the WWE Universe last October when he revealed his diagnosis and opened up about his first battle with the terrible disease 11 years ago when he was only 22 years old.

The Big Dog felt like he was handed a ‘death sentence’ during his first bout with the horrible illness but found it easier to fight it the second time thanks to the fans’ response and support.

The four-time world champion used to be the most polarising figure in WWE as a large section of the audience would boo him out of the building even though he wrestled as a babyface.

But ever since the ex-WWE Champion was struck by cancer the world of wrestling rallied behind him in unison and no longer jeer.

My character can be polarising, but everyone has dropped their opinion on Roman Reigns and supported Joe during this rough patch

Roman Reigns

The former Universal Champion put his leukaemia in remission last February after a four-month battle and the fans now cheer for him every time he performs.

The 33-year-old star is very grateful for the fans changing their minds about his wrestling gimmick and backing his real-life personality of Joe Anoa’i.

The former Shield ace also insists that the immense support played a key role on his recovery.

Reigns told Sport Illustrated: “That’s a terrifying word.

Roman Reigns is now cheered by WWE Universe

Roman Reigns is now cheered by WWE Universe (Image: WWE)

“Just the sound of leukaemia strikes fear in people’s hearts.

“But knowledge is power, and that’s the biggest difference now from my first diagnosis.

“I have the WWE to help spread more knowledge and awareness about leukaemia.

“The first time, I was only 22, it felt like a death sentence.

Roman Reigns is very grateful for the fans' support

Roman Reigns is very grateful for the fans' support (Image: WWE)

“This time around, it was nerve-wracking to let people know so much of my personal life, but the response and the support has given me a whole new perspective.

“My character can be polarising, but everyone has dropped their opinion on Roman Reigns and supported Joe during this rough patch.

“That’s been a key part of my comeback.”

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