SmackDown, this past week, became electrifying when The Rock returned to the blue brand during the opening segment. He was involved in a segment with Austin Theory where The People’s Champion hit The People’s Elbow on Austin Theory.
WWE’s official channels went abuzz due to this return and the social media views skyrocketted to the segment getting watched over 103 million times for the wrestling juggernaut. The Hollywood star was surprised by the ovation he received upon return and had nothing but gratitude for the WWE Universe.
The Rock took to the micro-blogging site X (formerly Twitter) and shared his thoughts in words through a post. He was taken aback by the thunderous ovation he received upon his return. The segment also involved Austin Theory who didn’t seem impressed with the former WWF superstar.
Dwayne Johnson got the people talking, when he cut a promo on Theory wherein he called Austin Theory an ‘****ole’. Fans loved this, but the broadcast partner had to censor the words to keep up with its programming.
I was – I’m still – completely blown away by this crowd reaction in Denver this past Friday night on SMACKDOWN. My appearance was a surprise to everyone and this crowd of 14,000 erupted with the roar of 100,000 strong. Top 5 loudest crowd reaction of my career (which I was like “holy sh*t” when I walked out.
I’m so grateful and humbled by this. I never take it for granted and “coming home” will always be sacred to me. Thank you my guy PatMac, the talented Austin Theory, [WWE] family backstage, Team Rock behind the scenes – everyone who joined us to go ALL IN. But most importantly, thank you with all my love, gratitude and respect, to THE PEOPLE. Our connection is real. Electrifying.
It’s no surprise that The Rock’s return was recieved with a thunderous response because he is one of the best to grace the business. There were speculations that he may show up on SmackDown as he appeared on ‘The Pat McAfee Show’ before the blue brand show came on air.
According to a report from Wrestlenomics, SmackDown was viewed by over 2.5 Million people. The 18-49 demographic saw a number of 0.70, which is a 33% increase in the overall numbers, and the overall viewership went up by 23%.
What do you have to say about this return? Sound off in the comments.
