The Rock shocked the WWE Universe with an unannounced return on SmackDown this week. The People’s Champion had not teased his appearance in any interviews leading up to the show, but his music electrified the crowd when it hit after four years.
The Rock’s return was a huge boost to WWE, and fans will be hoping to see more of him in the future. Here are three possible reasons for The Rock’s surprise return:
To Challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40
This is perhaps the most obvious reason for The Rock’s return. He has already teased a match with Reigns at WrestleMania 39, but it could be delayed until the following year.
A match between The Rock and Reigns would be one of the biggest in WWE history, and it would be a fitting way to celebrate the company’s 40th anniversary.
To Mark a New Era with a Bang
WWE always marks a new era with a bang, and bringing The Rock back for SmackDown could be part of that. In 2019, The Rock opened the first SmackDown on Fox and remained away from WWE for the next four years. The September 15th SmackDown was WWE’s first since merging with UFC to form TKO Group.
It could be just a one-off appearance by The Rock to kick off a new era in the biggest way possible. If this is the case, then fans shouldn’t expect to see The People’s Champion back on TV for another 3-4 years.
Also Read: The Rock Faceoff with John Cena in WWE
To Put the Spotlight on Austin Theory
WWE sees huge potential in Austin Theory, and he has already had matches with the likes of John Cena, Edge, Brock Lesnar, and other veteran superstars in his short main roster run. Booking him in a segment with The Rock was the best way to put the spotlight on him, and he did a tremendous job with the mic. The Rock did his job perfectly if he was there to put the spotlight on Theory.
It is also possible that The Rock’s return was a combination of all three of these reasons.
Regardless of the reason, The Rock’s return was a huge moment for WWE and its fans. It is sure to be one of the most talked-about moments of the year.
What’s next for The Rock?
Only time will tell what The Rock’s plans are for his WWE return. However, it is clear that he is still a major draw for the company, and his presence is sure to boost ratings and attendance.
If The Rock does challenge Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40, it would be one of the biggest matches in WWE history. However, even if he does not have a match, his presence on the show would still be a major event.
Fans will have to wait and see what The Rock has in store for them next, but one thing is for sure: his return is a major positive for WWE.
