Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s anticipated involvement could shape the outcome of SummerSlam 2025, as speculation grows that his unexpected return might impact the ongoing WWE championship storyline. The Rock SummerSlam 2025 return storyline continues to gain momentum, potentially altering plans for Cody Rhodes, John Cena, and the broader landscape of WWE’s star power.
The Rock’s Absence and the WWE Landscape
Since his last televised appearance at Elimination Chamber earlier this year, The Rock has been at the center of rumors and conflicting updates about his relationship with WWE and top TKO executives. Despite speculation about his creative input and shifting alliances backstage, fans still recognize the unmatched appeal that The Rock brings to major WWE events. Earlier this year, his actions helped trigger John Cena’s heel turn—an unexpected twist that sent ripples through current storylines, especially those involving Cena and Cody Rhodes ahead of WrestleMania 41.
Emotions among WWE supporters are running high, in part due to The Rock’s unpredictable presence. In some cases, fans say they
“genuinely do not want to see him,”
—everyone, Title/Role, an emotion reportedly fueled by his absence at the year’s premier show. Others claim they
“genuinely hate Dwayne Johnson, not his character (The Rock),”
—everyone, Title/Role, reflecting genuine controversy rarely seen with such a mainstream star. This type of audience reaction, often referred to as “heel heat,” echoes John Cena’s own divisive WWE run. Yet, the excitement and anticipation surrounding even the possibility of The Rock’s return remains undeniable.
Possible Shocks in the SummerSlam 2025 Main Event
Fans expect Cody Rhodes to win back the Undisputed WWE Championship from John Cena at this year’s SummerSlam. Rhodes is simultaneously preparing to star in an upcoming Street Fighter movie, however, leading to uncertainty about whether he will take a hiatus shortly after potentially winning the title. WWE’s need for continual star presence could contradict Rhodes’ likely absence, especially with Roman Reigns also set to take time off for movie commitments of his own.
If Cena loses to Rhodes and departs as well, the absence of both top stars could impact WWE’s weekly programming. As a result, there is a growing belief that the company could surprise its audience: John Cena might retain the title, which would only work without disappointing fans if The Rock intervenes in the main event. This move would mirror missed opportunities at WrestleMania, delivering a significant twist by having The Rock cost Rhodes his championship opportunity. With both Rhodes and Reigns possibly unavailable, a major storyline involving Cena and The Rock would help WWE retain its drawing power and audience interest.
The Rock and John Cena Aligning in WWE’s Future
Should Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns step away for their film commitments, John Cena and The Rock could take on more regular roles on WWE TV—a reversal that highlights the unique depth of current WWE stardom. While Rhodes and Reigns have become foundational to this era, few can match the impact that Cena and The Rock have historically brought to the company.
One potential storyline could see Cena and Rock targeting Rhodes to write him off television, just in time for his movie filming. With Reigns heading down a similar path, The Rock and Cena could even find themselves teaming with Seth Rollins over the following weeks. This alliance has the potential to build toward a high-profile six-man tag team or traditional tag team showdown, pitting John Cena, The Rock, and Seth Rollins against the likes of Rhodes, Reigns, and CM Punk when the latter stars complete their absences and return to WWE.
Implications of a Surprising Return
If WWE delivers this level of surprise at SummerSlam 2025, it would not only rewrite recent history but also provide the company with a solution to the inevitable void left by Rhodes’ and Reigns’ hiatuses. Introducing The Rock back into the fold—perhaps as part of a new alliance with John Cena—could capture fan attention and open up new creative chapters leading up to WrestleMania 41. With The Rock’s influence looming large and the potential for alliances to shift, fans should expect the unexpected as WWE navigates both the departures of core stars and the possibilities offered by its returning icons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is WrestleMania or SummerSlam bigger?
A. SummerSlam is a wrestling show held every year by WWE, the biggest wrestling group. It’s known as “The Biggest Party of the Summer” and is the second most important event after WrestleMania.
Q. Is SummerSlam 2025 2 nights?
A. Come to WWE SummerSlam 2025, the inaugural 2-night SummerSlam event, happening on Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3. Experience the excitement with top WWE Superstars and thrilling moments at MetLife Stadium. Don’t miss this historic event that changes the way we celebrate the summer’s biggest wrestling party!
Q. Is SummerSlam 2 nights in 2025?
A. The 38th annual SummerSlam will occur over two nights, on August 2 and 3, 2025. It will be at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Wrestlers from the Raw and SmackDown divisions will compete in this event.
Q. Will John Cena be at SummerSlam 2025?
A. John Cena will make his final appearance as a wrestler at a SummerSlam event because he plans to retire from wrestling by the end of 2025.
