The Rock Returns to WWE SmackDown with a Lucrative Offer for Cody Rhodes

The Rock returned to SmackDown and confronted Cody Rhodes, which may change the entire trajectory on the road to WrestleMania 41.
The Rock made a shocking announcement a day before the February 21st edition of SmackDown that he will be making an appearance at the show taking place at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. In the build up to his appearance, The Rock promised that he would deliver a big gift to the city of New Orleans.
Not only that, The Rock promised to call out somebody and take care of his business. The Final Boss delivered on all his promises and the man who was his target was none other than the Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.
The Rock made his grand entrance with a slight remix added to his Final Boss theme song. He hyped the fans in attendance with his aura and captivating presence. The Rock got straight to business and made a blockbuster announcement. The Final Boss announced that WrestleMania 42 will take place next year at the Superdome in New Orleans on April 11 and 12, 2026.
Following that, The Rock then turned his attention to the man he mentioned in his social media posts and it was none other than his former rival and the current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. The American Nightmare came down to the ring and embraced The Rock in a sign of respect.
The Great One revealed that after their rivalry ended at WrestleMania 40 last year, he and Cody Rhodes became friends over the next few months. Moreover, their mothers also have become friends. But he had business to take care of with Rhodes. The Rock reminded him that he was on the TKO Board, which owned WWE and asked Cody Rhodes to be his champion, but Rhodes made it clear that he was the fans' champion.
The Rock, citing his status as a megastar in the world, wanted the same for Cody Rhodes and offered to open those doors for him. He even revealed his goal that is left to accomplish, i.e., to face his cousin Roman Reigns last year at WrestleMania, but Cody stood up for himself, which The Rock respected.

Towards the end, The Rock told Cody Rhodes to think about his offer and give him an answer at the 2025 Elimination Chamber and exited the ring by saying, "I want your soul," which left Rhodes in shock. As The Rock reached the stage, he gave one final staredown to Rhodes.
Also read: Is The Rock the Richest WWE Superstar From The Anoa'i Family? Exploring The Final Boss' Financial Status