Former WWE manager Dutch Mantell recently shared insights on why the fans in Memphis, Tennessee, greeted The Rock with open arms during his recent visit to the city where he began his wrestling journey.
This week, the atmosphere in Memphis was electric as the Rock, formerly known as Flex Kavana, returned to his wrestling roots.
Entertaining the crowd with his iconic Rock Concert, the Hollywood star basked in the adoration of his hometown fans, who were thrilled to have him back.
In a recent episode of Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Smack Talk podcast, Mantell delved into the reasons behind the warm reception for The Rock.
He highlighted that it became challenging for fans to boo the People’s Champion when he repeatedly expressed his love for them.
Mantell emphasized the significance of WWE’s decision to make a stop in Memphis, a city renowned for its passionate wrestling community, before heading to WrestleMania.
“It’s hard to get people to boo you when you’re telling them you love them. He said, ‘I love you too.’ He said it like three times. People said, ‘We love you Rock,’ he says, ‘Oh, I love you too. Thank you, thank you, thank you.’ I think it was a great choice of venue for SmackDown, being in Memphis.” [4:20 onwards]
Following the concert, The Rock shifted gears and delivered a serious threat.
He publicly called out Cody’s mom, asserting his intention to defeat her son in their upcoming match and to present her with his bloodied belt as a token of victory, declaring, ‘You’re welcome.’
The Rock’s performance on SmackDown undoubtedly left a lasting impression. What are your thoughts on the Great One’s return? Share your opinions using the discuss button below.
