WWE's Paul Heyman Hits Back After Roman Reigns Calls Him 'Trash'

While Smith downplayed his role in ESPN’s growing relationship with WWE, Smith seemed to make his interest in joining the company.

“When I think about Paul Heyman, I do feel like there’s room for someone else,” Smith said.

Paul Heyman Responds: “You Want to Compete? Elevate the Title”

Paul Heyman, never one to shy away from a rebuttal, responded on X, offering a cutting take on both Reigns’ dig and Smith’s ambition. He rejected the “manager” label outright.

“I have always appreciated the kind words bestowed upon me by @StephenASmith,” Heyman posted on X. “But the term ‘manager’ is outdated and antiquated. If someone wishes to compete with me, they need to be an #Advocate, a #Wiseman, or an #Oracle.”

Heyman further asserted his position at the top of the sports industry, let alone the WWE in particular, calling himself the "GOAT."

“It is invigorating to know how many people still want to take their best shot at replicating the #GOAT of @WWE and all of sports, entertainment, and sports-entertainment,” Heyman wrote.

What's Next for WWE in 2026?

The public split between Reigns and Heyman, two prominent figures during WWE’s "The Bloodline" and "The O.T.C." storylines, marked a significant shift that will only be larger as the company prepares for a new media era under ESPN in 2026.

Reigns’ distancing from Heyman could suggest deeper storyline fractures heading into WWE’s next premium live events, with WWE's Chief Content Officer, Paul "Triple H" Levesque, hyping up the future of the promotion after the ESPN deal was announced.

"Bringing @espn and @WWE together is monumental. Two leaders in sports and entertainment delivering for our fans in the U.S.," Levesque posted on X. "This partnership presents a massive opportunity for the brand, our Superstars, and the industry as a whole. Excited for what’s to come…Get Ready for 2026!!!"