A new WWE rumor suggests wrestling icon the Rock may not be competing at WrestleMania 41 next year.
The new and improved “Final Boss” version of The Rock has been a standout piece of WWE content in 2024. In classic form, the future Hall-of-Famer read the reactions of the crowd before WrestleMania 40 this year and knew returning to his dark side was the best thing for business.
Related: New Information About The Rock’s Return At Bad Blood
It helped to generate huge interest in April’s two-night event that went on to break every record possible for a WrestleMania. Following this year’s card, the Rock has not been seen much on WWE television. The assumption has long been that he would eventually return and begin a rumored program with current WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.
That seemingly happened this month when he made a surprise return at this month’s Bad Blood premium live event. Following Bad Blood reports stated that night two of WrestleMania 41 could see the Rock face off with both Cody Rhodes and cousin Roman Reigns. However, a new rumor seems to counter that.
The Rock not scheduled to compete at Wrestlemania 41?
“While nobody can say it publicly, some with old school mentalities didn’t like the idea that he stole the show [at Bad Blood] and it‘s not building to a match,” Wrestling Observer reporter Dave Meltzer reported this week. “He’s not going to be able to do Mania. He already gave word that he wouldn’t be able to do that match.
“… What we do know is that when it comes to Dwayne Johnson this is either going to be all in, meaning a full training camp to get into the best wrestling and cosmetic shape he can get in, or not in. The story is simply his schedule got too heavy, he couldn’t commit to doing it right.”
It is a very surprising development considering the company has very much hinted at potential matchups with Reigns or Rhodes in 2025. Of course, there are six months to go before WrestleMania 41 and plans can always change.
Related: WWE Legend And TKO Board Member The Rock Reveals Weird Party Trick He Saves Just For ‘Adult Parties’