WWE looks set to address Roman Reigns’ WrestleMania status on next week’s Friday Night SmackDown, as they’ve released an article on their website advertising him for the show.

Roman Reigns is, as of writing, scheduled to face Goldberg for the Universal Championship at WrestleMania 36, which will be aired on April 4 & April 5 after it was filmed earlier this week at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando.

However, it was reported earlier this week that The Big Dog has removed himself from the WrestleMania card due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic as he is immunocompromised following his past battles with leukaemia.

Following this report, it was widely expected that WWE would address the issue of Reigns pulling out of this year’s Showcase of Immortals either on this week’s or next week’s SmackDown.

WWE has now confirmed they will be addressing The Big Dog’s WrestleMania status on next week’s SmackDown after publishing a preview for next Friday’s blue brand show on their website.

WWE said on their website: “The stage is set for the Spear vs. Spear, WrestleMania Dream Match between Roman Reigns and Goldberg. Before heading into the epic battle, the two larger than life Superstars will meet face to face one last time on SmackDown.

“After a fiery exchange of words, The Big Dog and the Universal Champion signed on the dotted line to make their showdown on The Grandest Stage of Them All official. Will one man leave with the upper hand heading into WrestleMania? Tune in to Friday Night SmackDown at 8/7 C to see what fireworks are in store.”

It has been reported by many news outlets that Braun Strowman will be the superstar that takes Reigns’ spot and faces Goldberg for the Universal Championship at WrestleMania 36. However, this is yet to be confirmed by WWE.

Other superstars that could be in line to face the WCW icon at this year’s Showcase of Immortals include King Corbin, since he’s arguably the biggest heel on SmackDown, and Matt Riddle since he has a well-known history with Goldberg, but he’s very much an outside contender.

John Cena is also scheduled to appear on next week’s SmackDown, where he will respond to Bray Wyatt’s challenge of a Firefly Fun House match at WrestleMania.