Despite The Rock’s significant involvement in the narrative preceding WWE Elimination Chamber – where he notably challenged Cody Rhodes’ “spirit”, and hinted at John Cena betraying Rhodes – he was conspicuously missing from WrestleMania 41 and associated events.
WWE Hall of Famer, Jim Ross, shared his views on The Rock’s no-show at WrestleMania 41 (Night Two) during a recent installment of his “Grilling JR” podcast, asserting that the absence was not a “dealbreaker.”
Below are some extracted points from the podcast:
Discussing The Rock’s no-show at WWE WrestleMania 41, Ross said, “I harbored no anticipation that he was going to make an appearance. I wouldn’t have been displeased if he did. I had no problem if it did happen, but there are too many people involved in the planning, Conrad. Too many individuals were involved in structuring that situation. Honestly, it didn’t hit me, one way or the other. I know The Rock as well as anyone; I was the one who signed him. He was among my top recruits back then. So, I was rather unfazed by his absence. I didn’t forecast his presence. Then again, perhaps I should have anticipated him showing up. It seemed logical, in one way or another, that he would participate in WrestleMania. However, I believe we have become slightly spoiled.”
With regards to whether this could spark a rivalry between The Rock and Triple H, he stated, “Perhaps it’s the latter [indicating the “real-life political maneuvering”]. It didn’t disturb me, positively or negatively. I do not wish to downplay its importance. The Rock’s participation is significant in any context or scenario. However, I never anticipated The Rock being involved in the entire promotion. There was no evidence hinting he would show up. Whenever The Rock is involved, it unquestionably enhances the presentation. Nevertheless, I wouldn’t assume it was a deal breaker.”