Dwayne Johnson, The Rock, made a surprise return to WWE SmackDown in Denver after almost four years, thrilling fans. His intentions for this comeback have been officially disclosed. This marks his first WWE appearance since October 2019, ending a nearly four-year absence.
A viral video is circulating from the latest episode of Friday SmackDown, capturing the moment just before The Rock made his WWE SmackDown entrance. It’s heartwarming to witness a brief break in character as he flashes a genuine smile in response to the thunderous crowd reaction.
The Rock right before he made his entrance on #WWE #Smackdown. You have to love the little smile as he hears the crowd pop. pic.twitter.com/dyIzCXx2Rg
— NoDQ.com: WWE and AEW news (@nodqdotcom) September 16, 2023
Dwayne Johnson initiated his presence by exchanging greetings with John Cena at the beginning of the show. Later, during the segment featuring Pat McAfee and Austin Theory, The Rock’s music blared through the arena.
Johnson energizes the crowd with chants of “You are an a**h*le” and proceeds to deliver the People’s Elbow to Austin Theory, laying down the SmackDown. Dwayne Johnson’s return to WWE coincides with an intriguing period.
THE MOST ELECTRIFYING MOVE IN ALL OF ENTERTAINMENT
A People’s Elbow from @TheRock AND @PatMcAfeeShow!!!#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/5mOQPETZrF
— WWE (@WWE) September 16, 2023
Dwayne Johnson’s comeback to WWE arrives at a notable juncture. It’s worth noting that Vince McMahon relinquished official control of Stamford-based promotion on Monday, and concurrently, actors and writers in Hollywood are currently on strike.
The Rock drops hints at WrestleMania 40 showdown with Roman Reigns in Philadelphia
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson spills the details on his WrestleMania match against Roman Reigns during his guest appearance in Boulder, Colorado played host to the 9/15 edition of The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN.
During their ongoing conversation, McAfee inquired if Johnson’s reluctance to return to in-ring competition was driven by a desire to prevent injury and potential project delays. Johnson clarified that the schedule isn’t a hindrance, as he can manage it quite effectively. He further explained that his focus is on creating unique experiences for the fans, seeking to achieve what has never been done before.
In the continuation of their conversation, The Rock revealed that the topic of The Bloodline storyline in WWE arose. He disclosed that there were initial plans for him to go up against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39. In early 2022, he held meetings with WWE President Nick Khan and Executive Chairman Vince McMahon to explore the possibility of headlining WrestleMania the following year.
Continuing the discussion The Rock said, “Hey listen, there’s a merger coming up, eventually, that will happen, there’s WrestleMania in Philadelphia…’ I’m saying that’s a potential too, I’m open. But again, let’s figure out what that is because the fans deserve something just incredible and unprecedented, and not only that”.
However, the plan couldn’t be solidified at that time. The Rock brought up the prospect of WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, expressing his availability for such an event.