Backstage Update on The Rock’s Status for WrestleMania 41, WWE’s Creative Plans

– Fightful Select has an update on WWE’s plans for WrestleMania as they pertain to international star, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Sean Ross Sapp initially reported on Fightful’s post WWE Raw show on Monday that he doesn’t believe The Rock will be working WrestleMania 41 based on things he’s heard. Additionally, Dr. Chris Featherstone reported that WWE’s creative department was operating under the notion that he’s not working the event, which Fightful has heard to be the case.

The Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer initially reported in October that The Rock informed WWE that he wouldn’t be available for next year’s event. The Rock himself later responded to the rumors on his Instagram account, writing, “Don’t believe any of that bulls***.” Fightful reports that at the time, individuals within WWE pushed back on that, but multiple individuals have stated that creative plans are being put into motion under the assumption that The Rock will not be working WrestleMania.

Fightful also notes that this is still under the “realistic notion” that things are still subject to change with The Rock, much like his recent appearance at Bad Blood that took place earlier in October. The Rock’s appearance at the premium live event was reportedly a way to get him on screen, and it reportedly didn’t have any major direction or plot point WWE was trying to further. WWE reportedly was not aware The Rock would be appearing definitively at the show until the week of the event. This is said to be why the Drew McIntyre vs. CM Punk Hell in a Cell match opened the show instead of headlining the event. The Rock was reportedly around all day at the event and he pulled up to the arena in plain view in his truck before it began.

The Rock also has a very busy filming schedule. He recently wrapped filming a live-action version of Moana, where he will reprise his role as Maui. Additionally, Fightful reports that Cody Rhodes and The Rock “filmed something” at the premiere of Moana 2. It may or may not see the light of day. However, the context of what they filmed is unknown.