According to the latest reports from Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Chris Featherstone and Fightful Select, WWE is moving forward creatively under the assumption that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will not be part of WrestleMania 41. This reports comes despite the ongoing buzz and speculation revolving around the potential appearance by “The Great One.”
Notably, Fightful Select stated: “Anyone pretending that anyone else reported that The Rock is ‘100 percent out’ for WrestleMania isn’t being genuine, and nobody would supply that information knowing The Rock.” This indicates WWE’s stance is more about planning for contingencies than outright ruling him out.
The Rock’s Surprise WWE Bad Blood 2024 Appearance
The Rock surprised the fans with a special appearance at WWE Bad Blood 2024 on October 5, but this cameo had no significant long-term creative plans, as per the Fightful,. WWE reportedly confirmed his attendance only the week of the event. This tight timeline explains why Drew McIntyre vs. CM Punk in Hell in a Cell opened the show rather than headlining it, as WWE adjusted to accommodate Rock’s availability.
Mystery Footage of The Rock with Cody Rhodes
Fightful also reported a intriguing details about The Rock and Cody Rhodes. The two filmed something together during the Moana premiere, though there’s no information on what it entailed or when (if ever) it will be used.
No Clarification About WrestleMania Appearance
Previously, Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer reported that The Rock had informed WWE of a “solid chance” he’d be unavailable for WrestleMania season. However, The Rock himself rejected these claims on Instagram, urging fans not to “believe that sh*t.”
Now, both Chris Featherstone and Fightful confirm WWE sources are working on some creative plans based on the assumption that Johnson’s packed schedule will keep him from WrestleMania 41. Despite this, insiders note there’s always a possibility plans could change, and The Rock might make it to Las Vegas in spring 2025.
The decision to proceed as if The Rock won’t be at WrestleMania 41 underscores WWE’s commitment to storytelling stability. While fans remain hopeful for a surprise appearance, but it’s clear that WWE isn’t banking on The Rock’s availability. With Triple H’s team focusing on other marquee matchups, the road to WrestleMania will remain unpredictable.
Stay tuned for more updates as the road to WWE’s biggest event of the year – WrestleMania continues to unfold.