Paul Heyman reveals Marlon Brando inspiration for Roman Reigns’ “Tribal Chief” gimmick

The character transformation of Roman Reigns since his return to WWE has been one of the best in the company’s history. It is also the most significant turning point in Reigns’ career. He has successfully transitioned into the most dominant heel in the business and is on the path to breaking many records. Reigns is likely to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame and could be recognized on multiple Mount Rushmores of wrestling.

Interestingly, the inspiration for the Tribal Chief character originated from a specific film recommended by Paul Heyman for Reigns to watch. If it weren’t for that recommendation, the character might not have come to life.

Paul Heyman details the inspiration behind Roman Reigns’ “Tribal Chief” persona

Paul Heyman has revealed how he was able to help Roman Reigns tap into his Tribal Chief persona. Reigns displayed a more aggressive side and became more focused on doing things his way after his return at WWE SummerSlam 2020. Just as Reigns began to establish himself as the top star again, he shocked fans by aligning himself with Paul Heyman. This alliance led to a record-breaking reign just seven days after Reigns’ return.

After winning an “I Quit” match against Jey Uso at Hell in a Cell, Reigns was greeted by The Wild Samoans Afa and Sika at the top of the ramp. They acknowledged Reigns as The Tribal Chief. Reigns continued to dominate the division and form his Island of Relevancy with The Bloodline. He was able to remain champion by any means necessary. According to The Wiseman, an Oscar-winning epic was the main inspiration behind this.

During an interview with “Barrett Sports Media,” Heyman mentioned that Marlon Brando’s portrayal of Colonel Walter Kurtz in Apocalypse Now played a significant role in the evolution of Reigns’ character.

“I had Roman Reigns watch ‘Apocalypse Now’ multiple times. To me, that was the heart and soul of the character of the Tribal Chief. A warrior so great that he conquered his own island. Brando presented himself as a pseudo-God. We call it a Tribal Chief. ..That’s where the villainry of Roman Reigns comes in because he says ‘Acknowledge me,’ and [at] once you acknowledge him,” said Paul Heyman while speaking to the BSM summit.

Roman Reigns’ WWE RAW appearance confirmed

Roman Reigns has established himself as the undisputed WWE Universal Champion and is currently reigning over the company with unwavering authority. His appearances on WWE shows are always highly anticipated, and it seems that he is now being promoted for the final Raw episode before WrestleMania 40.

Roman Reigns and The Rock have been engaged in a feud with Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins as they prepare for their match at WrestleMania 40. Recently, it was announced that The Rock is scheduled to appear on the April 1st episode of RAW, which happens to be the final RAW before WrestleMania 40. The upcoming show at Barclay’s Center in New York is generating a lot of excitement. Interestingly, the latest advertisements for the event feature not only The Rock and Cody Rhodes but also Roman Reigns.

At WrestleMania 40, Roman Reigns and The Rock will be teaming up to face Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins in a tag team match. It remains to be seen what they will do on the upcoming Monday Night Raw episode before the show.

Do you think Roman Reigns will be able to retain the Undisputed Universal Championship title? Let us know your thoughts on it in the comments section below!