THE OBA FEMI OPEN CHALLENGE

When Oba Femi absolutely handled Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 42, we wondered how WWE would follow up on that. After all, it’s clear he’s a huge star on the cusp of breaking out, and the company has a big task on its hands in figuring out how to capitalize on his growing popularity. There were teases of going after Roman Reigns following his world heavyweight championship victory over CM Punk in the main event in Las Vegas, but it was made clear even at the time that if it happens, it won’t be until later this year at the earliest.

So what’s next?

The Oba Femi open challenge, of course.

“You’re feeling good, I’m feeling good. Grayson Waller is not feeling so good but thankfully we don’t care how Grayson Waller feels. But he did say something that was right. He said there is no opportunity around here because all the big champions are locked in with their contenders and the U.S. champion doesn’t want to do open challenges anymore. So, I took it upon myself to create a solution to our problem. Ladies and gentlemen, as from today, the Oba Femi open challenge will commence. So to any man back there who wants to prove himself, step up. If you want to see how you’d fare at the top of the mountain, step up. But I will not take too kindly to your decision. Because when you come down here, I’ll be merciless, unforgiving, and relentless. I will punish you, I will make sure of that. Because you are not just stepping in with any man, you are stepping in with the Ruler, Oba Femi.”

This is a fantastic way to keep momentum going while clearly establishing that the prize here is not a championship but rather showing that you can defeat the Ruler. It’s also going to give him a chance to get plenty of ring time in against a variety of opponents.

None of whom will be able to climb the mountain, of course.

But it’s going to be electric when a really big name comes calling.

Agree with the direction here?