The Rock returned to WWE on last week’s SmackDown where he confronted Cody Rhodes, telling The American Nightmare he wanted him to become “his champion” and give him “his soul.” This segment generated mixed reactions among fans online.
During a recent Live Q&A on Backstage Pass, WrestleVotes provided insight into how this segment was received behind the scenes.
Unhappiness isn’t a word I’ve heard described for what happened on Friday night. I do think there’s some uneasiness, especially with some of the talent that may be affected now that he’s back in the fold. But yeah, I wouldn’t say no. And as far as what went down on Friday. I believe, I mean, I haven’t heard otherwise that what they had scripted transpired.
The source continued with further clarification about the segment’s execution:
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So I think what Rock wanted to do was told, and the story that he wants to tell about capturing Cody Rhodes, his soul came across the way he wanted it. So I haven’t heard any unhappiness or anything of that nature from Friday night.
The storyline continued to develop when Seth Rollins confronted Rhodes on the final episode of RAW before Elimination Chamber 2025. The two competitors engaged in a verbal exchange where Rollins made clear his intention to challenge for Rhodes’ Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania.
This situation could evolve further depending on the results of the upcoming Elimination Chamber premium live event this Saturday, where Rollins is scheduled to compete.
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