Paul Heyman blames bloodline, wants Roman Reigns return to SmackDown

The Tribal Chief Roman Reigns has not been in WWE since his historic bout against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40, but it hasn't prevented The Bloodline from progressing. How effective that has been varies on who you ask, and as the weeks pass, wise man Paul Heyman becomes increasingly upset with the faction's course. 

This aggravation bubbled over during tonight's SmackDown, when Heyman screamed at Kevin Owens, pleading with him to leave The Bloodline alone, labelling the recruits thugs and using the term criminals. He also told the audience that he wants Roman Reigns back more than anybody else, implying that Heyman is on the verge of defecting and turning against The Bloodline.

In a backstage scene, The Bloodline held a tense meeting in which Heyman provided his advice, only to be dismissed by Sikoa. Sikoa then claimed that they had Cody under control without his knowledge, while Heyman questioned who he meant by "we". Heyman also inquired about the aggressive individuals Sikoa had been recruiting, but Sikoa then assigned Tonga and Loa to take care of Kevin Owens.

Bloodline emerged victors

Owens then had a promo in the ring, and he called out The Bloodline, which drew Heyman to the ring. Heyman went on to say that no one in the arena wanted Roman Reigns back more than he did. Heyman then said that Roman rejected every new member Sikoa had recruited for the Bloodline because of what they would do and the impact they would have on the organization, referring to them as cruel thugs.

Heyman then became enraged, questioning why no one listens to him, and accidentally tossed the microphone down, hitting Owens. Owens threatened him, which attracted Sikoa, Tonga, and Loa out, and the Street Profits responded with support, resulting in a battle. A genuine bout ensued, and The Bloodline emerged victors, much to the dismay of the Street Profits, Owens, and Heyman.