Rumors have circulated this week that WrestleMania 43 might take place in Saudi Arabia, potentially marking WWE’s largest show ever. Central to the buzz was news that The Rock could return to face Cody Rhodes, a contest initially teased last year but then abandoned. Despite The Rock’s brief comeback in January, in which he praised Rhodes, he did not set up a match and soon left the company once again, dampening fan enthusiasm for the potential showdown.
How WWE’s Storytelling Choices Weakened Fan Engagement
The Rock’s focus appears to have shifted to his movie career, but he remains involved in WWE’s headline storylines. His unexpected decision to break character on the RAW launch show and openly commend Rhodes as the company’s “Quarterback” disrupted any ongoing narrative momentum. Moreover, with Travis Scott’s surprising role at WrestleMania’s main event and John Cena’s heel turn alongside inactive wrestlers, the storylines have lost coherence. These factors combined have left fans less invested in the prospect of a match between The Rock and Rhodes.
The Impact of The Rock’s Absence and the Timing of the Event
Fans were once captivated by the build-up to WrestleMania 40, but The Rock’s subsequent departure and inconsistent involvement have allowed interest to wane. The break from the company and incoherent storytelling choices have cast doubt on the viability of a compelling match storyline two years later. Additionally, if the WrestleMania 43 main event featuring The Rock vs Cody Rhodes takes place in Saudi Arabia, it is expected to be held in the afternoon, which may further affect viewership and fan enthusiasm.
