The February 16, 2026, episode of WWE RAW moved things forward on the road to Elimination Chamber with qualifying matches and a lot of star power. Nevertheless, a short backstage moment with Oba Femimight have quietly set up a huge new feud.
The former two-time NXT Champion has quickly become one of the most talked-about new stars on the main roster. Since leaving NXT earlier this year, Femi has been presented as a dominant free agent.
Earlier this month on RAW, Femi made a statement by taking apart The War Raiders by himself. It looks like WWE wants to make him a future main-event player, not just another call-up.
Backstage RAW Confrontation Hints at Oba Femi’s Future Rival
On Monday night, a backstage segment showed Femi meeting with RAW General Manager Adam Pearce. After the Women’s Elimination Chamber Triple Threat match with Natalya, Asuka, and Bayley, the show cut to Pearce officially offering Femi a RAW contract.
Pearce told him to take his time and decide whether he wanted to sign with RAW or look at options on SmackDown. He also claimed that his offer was better. The conversation made it clear that Femi is seen as a valuable signing.
But then things got interesting.
As Femi was leaving, he came face-to-face with none other than Rusev. The two big men stared angrily at each other and engaged in a staredown lasting several seconds. They didn’t say a word, but the tension was obvious.
Oba Femi hasn't signed yet and hasn't decided where he'll go, but… Rusev and Oba face off ?#WWERAW pic.twitter.com/ye27xnQlJ6
— Eslam (@EslamRollins) February 17, 2026
WWE has clearly been building Femi carefully. In this year’s Royal Rumble, he entered at No. 1, lasted more than 40 minutes, and eliminated five Superstars. His NXT success includes becoming the longest-reigning North American Champion and winning the NXT Championship twice.
It could be a possible hint that the Bulgarian Brute might be Femi’s first big singles feud on the main roster. Rusev is a former United States Champion known for his strength and aggressive style. He could be a strong test for the rising star.
Read More: Oba Femi Shares Why He Didn’t Give Much Thought To WWE NXT Title Loss
