New Delhi: The Rock returned to SmackDown with a message that could change everything on the road to WrestleMania 41. In front of a roaring New Orleans crowd, the Hollywood megastar didn’t just make an appearance—he took control. He officially announced that WrestleMania 42 would be held in the same city in 2026, but that wasn’t the biggest moment of the night. His real agenda became clear when he called out Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, a man who has been at the centre of speculation following his ruthless actions at the WWE Royal Rumble 2025.
The Rock acknowledged their past feud but claimed they had become friends in the months since WrestleMania 40. He even mentioned their mothers had grown close. But beneath the surface, there was tension. The Rock told Rhodes he wanted him to be “my champion” and offered him a level of power and influence that only he could provide.
But Cody Rhodes rejected the offer, saying he fights for the people, not for power. The Rock respected the answer—but still gave him a deadline. By Elimination Chamber on March 1, Rhodes must decide. And in a chilling final statement, The Rock looked him in the eyes and said, “I want your soul.”
Could The Rock be the catalyst for Cody Rhodes’ heel turn?
CODY RHODES AFTER HE SELLS HIS SOUL TO THE FINAL BOSS THE ROCK 👀#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/iqpctobVus
— FADE (@FadeAwayMedia) February 22, 2025
Rhodes’ rejection of The Rock’s offer seems noble, but fans have already noticed cracks in his heroic persona. His match against Kevin Owens at the Royal Rumble showcased a more ruthless side—one that sparked debates across social media. His aggression, his calculated approach, and his willingness to cross certain lines led many to compare him to Homelander, the villainous yet beloved anti-hero from The Boys. If Rhodes is already walking that fine line, The Rock’s influence could be the final push.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect. WWE is reportedly setting up Rhodes vs. John Cena at WrestleMania 41, a match that could define his character’s future. Cena, the ultimate symbol of heroism, would be the perfect opponent if Rhodes were to complete a full heel turn. The Rock’s mind games, his offer of power, and the pressure of being the WWE Champion could all push Rhodes to finally abandon his fan-favourite image. Could The Rock’s presence be the key factor in transforming Rhodes into the company’s top villain?
What does this mean for WWE WrestleMania 41?
The Rock announces WWE SmackDown return ahead of WrestleMania 41. (Photo-Getty Images)
With Elimination Chamber 2025 just around the corner, Cody Rhodes’ response will shape the WrestleMania 41 landscape. If he remains defiant, he may face The Rock’s wrath in unexpected ways. But if he starts leaning into his more ruthless tendencies, WWE may finally have the heel turn many have been predicting. A dark, power-hungry Cody Rhodes facing the greatest of all time, John Cena, on his farewell tour could be the blockbuster story WWE has been building toward.
The Rock’s words weren’t just about the present—they were about the future. If Cody Rhodes embraces the darkness, the WWE landscape could change forever.
The Rock’s return to SmackDown may push Cody Rhodes toward a heel turn, setting up a blockbuster WrestleMania 41 showdown with John Cena. WWE Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
