During WrestleMania XL Night 1, The Rock delivered a jaw-dropping performance that many spectators missed. In a highly anticipated tag team match, The Bloodline faced off against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins. The climax of the encounter was marked by The Great One executing a People’s Elbow on Rhodes and securing the victory with a pin. This moment was a highlight of the night, showcasing The Rock’s enduring charisma and in-ring prowess.
However, there was an off-camera incident that went unnoticed by the live audience but was captured by an attendee and later uploaded to YouTube. In the midst of the match, The Rock slapped the referee and tossed him into the ring to count a pin for Roman Reigns. Despite Rhodes managing to kick out, The Rock showed visible frustration, revealing a side of him that the fans seldom see.
The Rock’s influence was further demonstrated when he informed the referee mid-match that the rules had been changed to No Disqualification/No Countout. This sudden turn of events likely didn’t sit well with Triple H, but given The Rock’s status as a TKO Board member, he wielded significant authority. In a controversial move, The Rock then delivered a low blow to Seth Rollins. The referee, though witnessing the act, was powerless to intervene and later expressed his apologies to Cody Rhodes for his inability to counter The Bloodline’s dominance.
The outcome of this match set the stage for Night 2’s main event to be contested under Bloodline Rules. However, Cody Rhodes had a surprise in store. During the climactic battle, several wrestling icons, including Jey Uso, John Cena, Seth Rollins, and The Undertaker, emerged to balance the scales against The Bloodline. This intervention allowed Cody Rhodes to execute three consecutive Cross Rhodes on Reigns, ending his 1316-day tenure as the Undisputed WWE Champion. The victory was celebrated by Rhodes and the company’s leading heroes, while a disheartened Reigns retreated with his Bloodline allies.
The question on many fans’ minds following the eventful WrestleMania was whether The Rock had overstepped his boundaries with his actions. The debate continues as to whether his conduct was excessive for the grand spectacle that WrestleMania is known to be. As the dust settles, the wrestling community is left to ponder the ramifications of The Rock’s controversial choices during one of the industry’s biggest nights.
