“Manipulation”: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Accused of Nearly Killing Cody Rhodes’ Push Despite Backstage Outcry

As the dust settles on WrestleMania XL, fans anticipate WWE Backlash France. With all the drama ahead of Mania involving Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Cody Rhodes, one would be forgiven to think it was all part of the plan. As all WWE enthusiasts know, there were initial plans for WrestleMania that were set to be different. However, according to someone who knows wrestling better than most, this was all due to The Final Boss.

The Rock returned to the WWE on New Year’s Day to issue a challenge to Roman Reigns. However, things got messy after Rhodes won the Royal Rumble. The feud began at the WrestleMania XL kickoff show and will continue once Johnson returns.

Dave Meltzer claims Dwayne The Rock Johnson used his power to get the main event spot

Despite what people say about his rating system, Dave Meltzer is among the most knowledgeable regarding backstage affairs. When Meltzer claims something, it happens to be true more often than not. His bit on the Wrestling Observer Radio worried fans, as it outlined how The Rock inserted himself into the Mania scene. As mentioned above, despite challenging Reigns, Rhodes won the Mania’s main event spot by winning the Men’s Royal Rumble.

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However, Meltzer claims, “There were definitely people who did not want the Roman Reigns and The Rock match. There was a lot of manipulation going on that a lot of people aren’t aware of.” 

This power play is because Johnson is now a member of the TKO Board of Directors. It allows him more control over the WWE product than any other big-name wrestler. The fact that he is a well-known Hollywood star adds to his already-existing power.

Meltzer claims The Rock didn’t care about backstage heat

As the post continues, Meltzer claimed, “There were a lot of people who wanted Cody Rhodes to get that spot before the fan thing happened and didn’t want The Rock to get that spot.“ While fans would’ve loved to see The Rock face Reigns for the Head of the Table, taking over Rhodes’ spot at Mania wasn’t the right move.

In a wave of backlash unprecedented in the WWE, fans revolted against the idea. It forced the WWE to pivot the angle where Johnson sided with Reigns despite his earlier claims. Meltzer ended the post, claiming Dwayne The Rock Johnson gets what The Rock wants. It solidifies Johnson’s power in the WWE. Despite not wrestling in almost a decade, they showcased at both main event matches. What a massive draw. However, this rubbed fans the wrong way.

What do you feel about Johnson’s use of his new powers? Tell us in the comments.