Key Takeaways:
– Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock, warns new WWE Universal Champion Cody Rhodes of future competition.
– Johnson is taking a break from wrestling to focus on his acting resume, including the forthcoming A24 sports film, ‘The Smashing Machine’.
– Despite the hiatus, Johnson promises to come back for Rhodes, whether the latter holds the title or not.
The Rock Dishes Out Warning to Cody Rhodes
WrestleMania 40 may have seen the curtains fall on Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s stint, but he’s not bowing out quietly. Although Cody Rhodes emerged as the new Undisputed WWE Universal Champion by defeating Roman Reigns, Johnson is not ready to bring their rivalry to an end.
On April 7th, Rhodes took over the championship from Roman Reigns. The event, held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a repeat of last year’s show, but from a different performance angle. Rhodes emerged superior, thereby becoming the new face of the WWE. This win was an opportunity for Rhodes to redeem last year’s loss and he fully seized it.
Dwayne Johnson at the WWE After Party
Following Rhodes’ victory, Triple H lauded the new champion and named him to lead the WWE. Amidst this celebration, Johnson made a dramatic entrance. The sight of him climbing up to the ring generated mixed feelings, causing cheers and boos from the crowd.
However, The Rock stole the show when he took the belt from Rhodes, placed it on his shoulder and proceeded to announce his temporary departure from professional wrestling. Despite conceding the belt, Johnson relayed a cryptic message to the new champ. The warning was clear: “Your story with Roman Reigns is over. Ours has just begun.”
Johnson’s Focus Shifts to Filming
With WrestleMania 40 behind him, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson now sets his gaze on his flourishing acting career. Up next for Johnson is a role in the A24 sports film, ‘The Smashing Machine.’ The former WWE champ will take up the role of Mark Kerr, famed for his exceptional mixed martial arts skills.
Launched by the studio back in December, the film will be under the direction of Benny Safdie. There’s buzz around Emily Blunt joining the cast as Kerr’s ex-wife, Dawn Staples. This would mark a reunion for Blunt and Johnson, who previously shared the screen for ‘Jungle Cruise’.
Johnson also has a role in the remake of one of Disney’s biggest hits, ‘Moana.’ He’s slated to reprise his role in both the live-action adaptation and the animated sequel.
Conclusion
Despite a lean towards acting and a full movie slate, Johnson made it clear that he’s far from bidding goodbye to wrestling. His WWE fans fervently hope he will soon return to the ring. The wrestling world waits, hoping to witness The Rock and The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, battle it out again. Johnson’s departure leaves with him a challenge for Rhodes and a memorable moment for wrestling enthusiasts.
