Bad Bunny, the Grammy-winning sensation who made waves in the music industry, is also leaving an undeniable mark in the wrestling world. His commitment to the craft was clear when he fought Damian Priest in a memorable San Juan Street Fight at WWE Backlash in May. The duo showcased an unforgettable performance, stealing the spotlight worthy of being the main event over Cody Rhodes’ match against Brock Lesnar, which was equally memorable, by the way.
However, Bunny’s experiences within the ring’s ropes were anything but a walk in the park. Yet, the pain and physicality of the sport have not doused the singer’s playful spirit or his enthusiasm for wrestling.
In a recent Vanity Fair interview, he tossed a jovial challenge to “The Tribal Chief”, Roman Reigns, expressing a whimsical desire to snatch away the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. My plan is to take the title from Roman Reigns,” he quipped. Still, in the same breath, he admitted he’s trying to stay away from the grueling world of professional wrestling for a while.
Reigns has been a formidable force in the wrestling world. In the past few years, he has solidified his legacy with several championship runs, and WrestleMania main events under his belt, Bunny’s previous WWE stints, including the tag team match at WrestleMania 37 and a brief reign as the WWE 24/7 Champion, prove he is not a mere celebrity guest. He holds an unblemished record, having never been pinned or made to submit.
Reigns’ ambitions have been to surpass the milestones set by legendary figures, specifically Bruno Sammartino, aiming for the claim of the “greatest of all time.”
If Reigns has his way, the only record that he won’t beat is that of Bob Backlund and Sammartino’s initial championship run.
Bad Bunny’s intent, playful as it might sound, sparks an intriguing potential confrontation with yet another one of the WWE’s biggest stars. Both their worlds couldn’t be more different, with Bunny hailing from the world of reggaeton and trap, and Reigns reigning supreme in the wrestling arena. However, Bunny’s previous match showcased his dedication, impressing fans and proving that the Puerto Rican artist has the tenacity to step into the ring.
That said, fans of the multi-talented star might have to temper their expectations. Bunny’s recollections of the physical toll wrestling took on him, especially after his match with Damian Priest at WWE Backlash, indicate a certain level of reluctance to return. As he revealed in the interview with Vanity Fair, the San Juan Street Fight against Priest was “just too painful.” Whether this is a permanent hiatus or a temporary one, only time will tell.
However, it’s undeniable that Bunny’s blend of charisma, talent, and newfound wrestling prowess has left an indelible mark on both the music and wrestling worlds. But while Bunny’s wrestling aspirations may be currently uncertain, the allure of the squared circle, like school after a long summer vacation, has a way of drawing one back into its fold.
In the end, as Bunny himself put it best: “the desire always comes back.”
