Short Answer: Roman Reigns has chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a type of blood cancer. However, he has been in remission since February 2019 and continues to manage the condition with ongoing medication. As of 2024, there have been no public reports of a new relapse.
Who is Roman Reigns?
Roman Reigns, whose real name is Leati Joseph Anoa’i, is an American professional wrestler and actor. Born on May 25, 1985, in Pensacola, Florida, he is a member of the renowned Anoa’i wrestling family.
Before wrestling, Reigns played college football at Georgia Tech and briefly pursued professional football before signing with WWE in 2010. He rose to global prominence as a member of The Shield (alongside Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose) and later became one of WWE’s most dominant champions.
Roman Reigns’ Leukemia Diagnosis: Full Timeline
2007–2008: Initial Diagnosis
- Reigns was first diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) at age 22.
- The condition went into remission after treatment.
- He later began his wrestling career while managing the disease.
October 2018: Leukemia Returns
On October 22, 2018, Roman Reigns made a public announcement on WWE’s Monday Night Raw:
- He revealed his leukemia had returned.
- He relinquished the WWE Universal Championship.
- He stepped away from wrestling to focus on treatment.
This announcement received widespread support across sports and entertainment.
February 2019: Remission Announcement
After approximately four months away from WWE, Reigns returned in February 2019 and announced:
His leukemia was once again in remission.
He resumed full-time competition shortly afterward.
What Type of Cancer Does Roman Reigns Have?
Roman Reigns has chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
What Is CML?
- A slow-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow
- Caused by a genetic mutation (Philadelphia chromosome)
- Often manageable with targeted oral medication
- Considered treatable but generally not “curable”
Modern treatment typically involves tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) — daily oral medication that controls the disease and allows patients to live long, active lives.
Reigns has publicly stated he takes oral chemotherapy medication to manage the condition.
Is Roman Reigns Cured?
CML is generally considered a chronic condition, not permanently curable in most cases.
However:
- Reigns is in remission.
- Remission means the cancer is controlled and not actively progressing.
- He continues long-term medication to maintain that remission.
There has been no confirmed report of active cancer recurrence since 2018.
Why Didn’t Roman Reigns Lose His Hair?
Many fans wondered why Reigns did not lose his hair during treatment.
The reason:
- CML is typically treated with targeted oral therapy, not traditional intravenous chemotherapy.
- These medications often do not cause the same visible side effects (like hair loss).
Has Cancer Affected Roman Reigns’ WWE Career?
Yes — but not permanently.
- He took a medical leave in late 2018.
- Returned in early 2019.
- Went on to hold one of the longest championship reigns in WWE modern history.
- Adopted a more limited schedule in recent years, partially to manage health and personal priorities.
Despite living with a chronic condition, Reigns has continued performing at an elite level.
Is Roman Reigns Still Dealing With Leukemia in 2024?
As of 2024:
- He remains in remission.
- He continues oral medication.
- There are no public reports of relapse.
- He has maintained an active WWE presence.
Because CML is chronic, ongoing management is expected. However, remission allows him to continue working and competing safely.
Roman Reigns and Cancer Awareness
Beyond wrestling, Reigns has:
- Spoken publicly about living with leukemia
- Participated in cancer awareness initiatives
- Visited cancer centers and patients
- Encouraged regular medical checkups
His openness has helped reduce stigma around chronic illness in professional sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cancer does Roman Reigns have?
He has chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a type of blood cancer.
When was Roman Reigns diagnosed?
He was first diagnosed around 2007–2008 at age 22. The disease returned in 2018.
Is Roman Reigns in remission?
Yes. He announced remission in February 2019 and remains in remission as of 2024.
How long was he away from WWE?
Approximately four months (October 2018 to February 2019).
Is CML curable?
CML is typically managed long-term with medication. It is often controlled but not permanently cured.
Final Verdict
Roman Reigns does not currently have active cancer. He lives with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a manageable blood cancer, and has been in remission since 2019.
His journey reflects both medical advancement and personal resilience. By openly discussing his condition, Reigns has become not only a wrestling icon but also a symbol of strength for those facing chronic illness.
His story continues — both inside and outside the ring — as proof that a serious diagnosis does not have to define or limit a life.
