The Rock has made a shocking return to the WWE, embracing his role as a heel with unabashed enthusiasm. The electrifying superstar has opened up about his transition back to the dark side after an extended hiatus, offering candid insights into his WWE persona.
Marking his comeback on WWE TV, anticipation soared as fans envisioned the long-awaited clash between The Rock and Roman Reigns. However, WWE’s decision to insert Cody Rhodes into the equation at the Royal Rumble sparked uproar among fans. Also, it derailed plans for the highly anticipated showdown. Reacting to this unexpected twist, The Rock found himself at odds with the WWE Universe. In a strategic move, WWE planned The Rock’s heel turn, resurrecting the persona of Hollywood Rock. Also, this aligned him with Reigns in The Bloodline faction.
Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel, The Rock shared his thoughts on embracing the role of a villain. He stated, “It is the best to go back to WWE in this ‘Rock 10.0’ version where I can become a heel and say the things that people want to say.”
The Great One’s heel turn move set the stage for a mega tag team showdown at WrestleMania 40. Furthermore, this marks The Rock’s first advertised match in over a decade.
John Cena’s reaction to The Rock’s WWE heel turn
John Cena shared his thoughts and feelings on The Rock’s surprising WWE heel turn during an appearance on Insight with Chris Van Vliet. In the interview, Cena emphasized his appreciation for surprises in storytelling and acknowledged the possibility of being mistaken in his predictions. Cena stated, “I’d have to see the end result, and I love being surprised, and I also love saying that I’m wrong because I’ve been wrong about a lot of stuff. When I say, ‘I’m wrong,’ that means I’m just about to learn something that I’m not going to forget. I think Dwayne Johnson is such an attraction, I think The Rock is such an attraction. I don’t think our audience [can be] angry with him.”
Reactions to The Great One’s heel turn have been largely positive. This has implications for the WWE Universal Title picture at WrestleMania 40. The storyline has reintegrated Cody Rhodes into the title fold. It has also set the stage for a potentially longer narrative arc between The Rock and Roman Reigns. It will be interesting to see if The Rock remains a heel post-WrestleMania 40.
