The decision to shift gears and set up a WrestleMania 40 clash between Roman Reigns and The Rock reportedly stems from the strong advocacy of the latter. According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com, The Rock actively lobbied for the match and garnered support from top executives in TKO Group Holdings. This influential backing led WWE to change course from the initially perceived plan of a Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes showdown.
While Reigns vs. The Rock has not been officially announced for WrestleMania, recent developments on SmackDown saw Cody Rhodes cut a promo stating his intention to pursue the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship but not at WrestleMania. The Rock made a surprise appearance, sharing a handshake with Rhodes and engaging in a tense face-off with Reigns to close the show.
Johnson anticipates that an official announcement for Reigns vs. The Rock will be made during a WrestleMania press conference in Las Vegas on Thursday. Sources suggest that The Rock’s lobbying efforts were driven by a desire to “save WrestleMania” given the absence of key stars like CM Punk and Brock Lesnar. Additionally, it is noted that The Rock’s stock payout, contingent on certain milestones, including a return to the ring in 2024, might have influenced his push for the match.
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer indicates that the initial plan was indeed Reigns vs. Rhodes, explaining Rhodes’ Royal Rumble win and subsequent interaction with Reigns. However, Punk’s injury played a role in WWE shifting directions, as the original plan also involved Punk facing Seth Rollins at WrestleMania.
Meltzer suggests that WWE might want to divert attention from former chairman and CEO Vince McMahon’s recent controversies by changing the narrative around WrestleMania plans. As per Johnson’s report, it seems likely that Rhodes will face Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 40, setting the stage for a rematch from WrestleMania 38.
While a potential win for Rhodes would mark a significant career moment, it may not align with his overarching goal of “finishing the story” by capturing the title held by Reigns. The evolving WrestleMania narrative continues to captivate fans with twists and turns.
