The premiere episode of WWE: Unreal, a new Netflix series offering an inside look at the creation of WWE storylines and matches, featured key figures like Seth Rollins and The Rock. Airing earlier this week, the series provides fans with a fresh perspective on the wrestling world by showcasing how narratives are developed behind closed doors, with Seth Rollins WWE Unreal insights playing a central role in the episode.
Rhea Ripley Overcomes Pre-Match Anxiety at WrestleMania 41
One of the early storylines revealed was Rhea Ripley, also known as The Eradicator, struggling with a mental breakdown just before her Triple Threat Match against Bianca Belair and then-Women’s World Champion IYO SKY, which took place in Las Vegas. Triple H stepped in backstage for a motivating conversation that helped Calm Ripley’s nerves, allowing her to deliver a memorable performance in front of thousands of fans.
“Breathe, rockstar, you got this sh*t. Stop getting in your own head. Just do what you do. I’ll tell you now, there’s nobody better at this than you. Just do what you do. Breathe. Have fun,” Triple H told Rhea Ripley backstage. [H/T: WrestleTalk]
John Cena’s Heel Turn: Collaborative Storytelling and The Rock’s Influence
Triple H also shared insights into the planning of John Cena’s heel turn, explaining that the storyline was shaped by discussions with multiple key individuals such as WWE President Nick Khan, The Rock, Travis Scott, Cody Rhodes, and John Cena himself. Of particular note was The Rock’s suggestion to shift the narrative from a “selling their souls” angle to a focus on business-oriented motives, broadening the storyline’s scope and unpredictability.
“I don’t think, the whole time, it’s been about me and John. I don’t think it has anything to do with our souls. I also think what that does is it puts us in a position where then it all becomes unpredictable,” The Rock said in the opening episode of WWE: Unreal. [H/T: ITR Wrestling]
The heel turn culminated at the Elimination Chamber event in Toronto, where John Cena aligned with Travis Scott, Cody Rhodes, and The Rock, eventually becoming a 17-time World Champion at WrestleMania 41.
Charlotte Flair and Tiffany Stratton Clash Over Women’s Championship
The show also documented the buildup to the intense WWE Women’s Championship match at WrestleMania 41, featuring Charlotte Flair, who secured her spot by winning the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble, and challenger Tiffany Stratton. Their rivalry escalated with a heated promo on SmackDown, during which Stratton made an unscripted reference to Flair’s personal life, specifically her three divorces. This unsanctioned comment drew a sharp rebuke from Triple H, who reminded officials that such actions were not acceptable backstage.
This is not how we do it here.
Despite the controversy, Tiffany Stratton successfully defended her title during the event in Las Vegas.
The Men’s Elimination Chamber and Seth Rollins’ Pivotal Role
In the 2025 Men’s Elimination Chamber Match, Triple H revealed that the concept behind the concluding moments was devised by Seth Rollins, known as The Visionary. While John Cena ultimately won, earning a title shot against Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania, this was made possible by Rollins’ critical interference. Rollins “Stomped Punk,” allowing Cena to capitalize and secure victory. This plan originated with CM Punk, who sacrificed his own chance to compete for the Undisputed WWE Title as a result.
Seth Rollins Dominates Main Event Despite Intense Rivalries
Leading up to WrestleMania 41, Seth Rollins was embroiled in a fierce feud involving Roman Reigns and CM Punk, culminating in a dramatic Triple Threat Match on Night One. Although the buildup highlighted Punk, Reigns, and their manager Paul Heyman, Rollins emerged as the standout performer by winning the match after The Oracle unexpectedly betrayed both Reigns and Punk. His victory was met with a standing ovation from notable figures including his wife Becky Lynch, Triple H, WWE executives, and fellow wrestlers.
Current Status and Future Outlook for Seth Rollins and WWE
At present, Seth Rollins is sidelined due to an injury. Nevertheless, his allies Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed continue to make an impact on WWE Raw, sustaining their dominance. The insights revealed in WWE: Unreal not only provide fans with a deeper understanding of the sport’s storytelling mechanics but also highlight Rollins’ significant influence within the company and his ongoing legacy.
