Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has resolved tensions with wrestling radio host Dave LaGreca after their disagreement over The Rock’s decision to skip WrestleMania 41 and his criticism of how the event’s main match was booked. The fallout came after WrestleMania 41 took place in April at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, where John Cena defeated Cody Rhodes to win the WWE Championship. The discussion centered on WrestleMania 41 reconciliation and the decisions behind the scenes regarding the event’s climax.
Before WrestleMania 41, The Rock was heavily featured in storylines, particularly following John Cena’s surprising heel turn at the February Elimination Chamber event. Many expected The Rock, also known as The Final Boss, to make a significant appearance during the two-night pay-per-view event. However, he did not show up at the event, which sparked backlash from fans and media alike, placing a damper on the main event’s reception.
In interviews after the event, The Rock explained that he chose to stay out of the spotlight to let Cena’s historic win receive full attention. He also hinted that he would have handled the booking of the match differently, criticizing the decision to include Travis Scott interfering on Cena’s behalf. This interference drew sharp criticism and proved controversial among the WWE fanbase and insiders.
Disagreement Over WrestleMania Booking Fueled Public Disputes
Dave LaGreca reacted strongly to The Rock’s public comments, expressing frustration that The Rock did not make himself available around WrestleMania and questioned his decision to comment on Triple H’s role in the match booking. LaGreca addressed The Rock during an appearance on SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio, saying:
Nice to hear from you now pal. Now that everyone’s bitching and complaining ‘yeah I would have done things differently’… Didn’t make yourself available, didn’t show up at WrestleMania. You talk about throwing Triple H completely under the bus, that’s exactly what The Rock did.
— Dave LaGreca, Wrestling Radio Presenter
In response, The Rock took to Instagram to remind LaGreca that the wrestling business itself is deeply scripted and collaborative. He invited LaGreca to join creative conversations with himself, Cena, Cody Rhodes, and others, saying:
Hi Dave, the business is a complete work. Always has been, always will be. Every aspect of it. Every match. Every interview. Please join me, Cody, Cena, Brian and the rest of us for our creative discussions so you can expand your perspective. Until then, stop ranting, it’s not healthy my friend.
— Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, WWE Legend
The exchange chilled their relationship for a time, but the two recently met to end their dispute. In a sign of reconciliation, LaGreca gifted The Rock a ‘Hall of Fame’ pink robe, emblematic of their shared history and LaGreca’s respect for the Hollywood actor’s wrestling legacy.
Congratulations on everything. This has been six years in the making. I know we haven’t seen eye to eye so I have a gift for you, so this is the original pink robe I wore in the video.
— Dave LaGreca, Wrestling Radio Presenter
Reflection on The Rock’s Absence and WrestleMania’s Aftermath
Although the men ended their feud amicably, LaGreca reminded The Rock that his absence was deeply felt by fans and professionals alike at this year’s WrestleMania. On their recent reconciliation, LaGreca said:
Dude, we miss you. We missed you, 41, could have used you. 40 you gave us the best story ever.
— Dave LaGreca, Wrestling Radio Presenter
The Rock acknowledged the comment with humor but the message underscored the impact his absence had on WrestleMania 41’s reception. The event’s conclusion, marred by controversial booking choices, especially involving Travis Scott’s spotlight alongside Cena during the main event, shifted attention away from an otherwise historic moment – Cena capturing his 17th world title and cementing his heel persona.
The Rock has stayed busy promoting his new movie, ‘The Smashing Machine,’ which has received positive reviews, but he has yet to return to WWE television since Elimination Chamber. With WrestleMania 43 being scheduled for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, speculation is rising among fans and analysts about a potential return to the ring for The Rock, possibly adding a major storyline to the upcoming Pay-Per-View event.
