The Rock’s highly anticipated return to WWE television on SmackDown, where he also assumed a role on TKO’s Board of Directors, hints at a potential challenge for Roman Reigns’ Undisputed Universal Championship at WrestleMania 40.
However, this comeback has not been universally embraced by viewers, with even wrestling veteran Vince Russo expressing reservations.
Initially, seemed poised to face Roman Reigns for the second consecutive year after emerging victorious in the men’s Royal Rumble match last month. However, Rhodes shifted gears on a recent episode of SmackDown, laying the groundwork for The Rock’s return instead.
Rhodes explicitly stated that he had no intention of pursuing The Tribal Chief’s championship at The Show of Shows, paving the way for The Great One to confront Roman Reigns after months of speculation.
This creative decision, veering from the anticipated storyline of Rhodes challenging and potentially defeating Reigns at WrestleMania, has garnered predominantly negative reactions from fans.
Vince Russo weighed in on the choice to pit The Rock against Reigns, acknowledging the reasoning behind it. However, he also highlighted concerns about the potential impact, suggesting that The People’s Champion may not hold the same appeal as in the past:
“I don’t think people understand, but, you know, outside of wrestling, I’m talking about that casual fan base now, bro. [The] Rock has lost his luster with a lot of people, and if you don’t believe me, look at the box office for Black Adam, okay,” Russo remarked.
