Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena had an unexpected reunion more than a decade after their iconic WrestleMania clashes. This surprise encounter unfolded on WWE SmackDown, following the unannounced appearances of The Rock and Pat McAfee during the show’s opening segment.
McAfee, a former WWE commentator and occasional wrestler, kicked off the show without any prior promotion. His appearance was promptly interrupted by Austin Theory, a former United States champion, leading to a fiery exchange of words. As tensions escalated, McAfee unveiled the evening’s second surprise guest, The Rock.
The Rock didn’t hold back in verbally lambasting Theory, and he led the crowd in an extended chant of “you’re an asshole” directed at the brash young superstar. Theory’s frustration reached its peak, prompting him to launch an attack. The Rock swiftly executed his signature spinebuster move, followed by a People’s Elbow. He then invited McAfee to put his own twist on the People’s Elbow.
Later backstage, The Rock shared a heartfelt moment with John Cena, both of whom had transitioned from multi-time WWE champions to successful actors. The two former rivals had previously headlined WrestleMania 28 and WrestleMania 29, with each winning one of the two matches.
Earlier on the same day, the star of “Black Adam” appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show.” During the interview, Johnson confirmed that there were originally plans for a match between him and Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39, but these plans fell through. He also hinted at the possibility of a showdown with Reigns at WrestleMania 40, slated for next April in Philadelphia.