- The Rock returned to WWE television for a WWE SmackDown episode on Friday
- He said that he wants Cody Rhodes ‘soul’ ahead of Elimination Chamber 2025
- But The Rock insisted that the duo’s storyline does not have to end in the ring
The Rock made his return to WWE television on the February 21 episode of WWE SmackDown, and in doing so offered Cody Rhodes an ultimatum ahead of Elimination Chamber 2025.
During his appearance, The Rock made big announcements, including that WrestleMania 42 will take place in New Orleans.
The Final Boss then went on to say that he wants Cody Rhodes’ ‘soul’, and confirmed his presence at the upcoming Elimination Chamber event to see if Rhodes is willing to give it up.
Yet, The Rock noted that his unpredictable storyline with Rhodes could focus more on personal interactions than a typical match-based climax.
’And at the end, the Final Boss says, “I want your soul.” I think what that does, in this wild, crazy world of pro wrestling, is that to me, it just becomes something that’s unpredictable,’ he said.
‘In the world of pro wrestling, everything will culminate to a match. Whatever happens, it will end up in the ring.’
The Rock addressed his storyline Cody Rhodes on Friday night’s episode of WWE SmackDown
However, he argued that their tensions do not have to culminate in a showdown in the ring
The duo (pictured) were involved in a tag team match at WrestleMania 40 in April last year
The Rock went on to highlight the creative freedom in portraying a character where the narrative doesn’t rely on wrestling but rather on compelling drama.
’What I really love about this rare airspace that we’ve gotten to with the character of the Final Boss, it’s like this white whale unicorn in that with the Final Boss and Cody Rhodes, it’s not about the WWE Title, it’s not about having a match.
‘It’s not about punching or kicking or bleeding or any of that that is so part of our world,’ The Rock said. ’It never has to culminate to a match.
’That’s a really special place to be, I think, creatively and when you think character-wise and how much fun you can have.’
Prior to The Rock’s return this week, WWE had planned for Cody Rhodes to face John Cena and Roman Reigns to face CM Punk at WrestleMania 41.
The Rock’s involvement has led to significant changes, including removing Cody Rhodes from the main event.
