There’s no doubt that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is one of the greatest WWE Superstars of all time. His promos were electrifying and his rivalry with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin is a classic. Without him, who knows where sports entertainment would be? What’s interesting is his contribution goes beyond what he’s done while he was with World Wrestling Entertainment. His movies, public appearances, and more have brought more attention, fans, and money to the WWE.
During the first episode of Monday Night Raw in 2024, The Rock sent a message to Roman Reigns. He said that he should eat the head of the table. He didn’t say his younger cousin’s name, but fans knew who he was referring to. During a recent episode of SmackDown (February 1, 2024), Dwyane made his intentions clear. He’ll be going up against The Tribal Chief in the future. Most likely at WrestleMania 40.
Most wrestling fans are ecstatic to see The Rock return. The way people pop when his music hits is a clear indication of that. Despite the love he receives, it’s been weird seeing him so much. Especially since he only made maybe one appearance a year (if at all) and people wanted to see Cody Rhodes finish his story and defeat Roman at WrestleMania. If you’re wondering why it's The Rock instead of Cody or why Dwayne coming back as often, allow me to offer a couple of reasons.
NO. WAY.@TheRock is here on #SmackDown!!!! pic.twitter.com/AbES50dO43
— WWE (@WWE) February 3, 2024
The Rock is ratings
Let’s be clear, the WWE may not need Dwayne Johnson for ratings, but his presence doesn't hurt to have. More sponsors will see The Rock main even WrestleMania 40 and want a chance to advertise at the event. That money can go to better costumes, musical performances, and more. However, it’s more than the advertisements. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will be on every show and podcast promoting WrestleMania 40 and TKO.
No matter how you feel about him, Dwayne Jonson is charismatic. He has an infectious smile and personality and knows how to use it. People patiently wait to hear what he’s going to say even if they know what’s coming. That’s going to add more viewers to WrestleMania 40 all over the world.
The WWE may not need him to do this, but every little bit helps. Plus, it brings attention to him being a board member at TKO. There’s no way he doesn’t mention it during his promo run.
CM Punk's injury
CM Punk’s injury threw a wrench in the WrestleMania plans. Since his return (Survivor Series: WarGames) Seth Rollins has been on a collision course with “The Best in the World”. Punk’s injury (which seems legit) ruined the WWE’s plans. Now, The Rock did say he was going after Roman Reigns, but that doesn’t mean it was at WrestleMania. That could have been the main event at WWE’s Elimination Chamber.
It’s the first time WWE's Elimination Chamber has been in Australia. Having Dwayne Johnson compete during that main event could have made the event even better. Instead, he’s facing his cousin. Although, knowing how things change in the WWE, The Rock and Roman Reigns could face each other sooner than we think. Either way, Punk's injury altered WrestleMania 40's original plans.
Dwayne Johnson needs a boost
Once upon a time, anything featuring Dwayne Johnson touched turned to gold. His movies weren’t just number one at the box office. They were smashes. Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever. The Rock’s heat has cooled down a bit over the past five years.
Black Adam was entertaining and No. 1 opening weekend but didn’t make the money Warner Bros wanted or expected. His conflicts with Vin Diesel and Jason Mamo hurt Dwayne more than them (seriously, who doesn't love Jason Mamoa). The Fast and Furious franchise did well without him. And while he said he wouldn’t be in another Fast and Furious project, his return in Fast X says a lot. Granted, he could have decided to do the movie for multiple reasons (money being one of them).
Dwayne’s rise to fame started in the WWE/WWF. The fans of the universe are the reason he’s a multi-millionaire. The best part is he knows it. The Rock has always been grateful for World Wrestling Entertainment and his fans. That’s the main reason he came back. When there’s nowhere else to go, home is always there. Hopefully, coming back to the WWE will help him return to his former god-like status in Hollywood.