WWE RAW’s new era on Netflix began last week at the Inuit Dome in Los Angeles, California, with The Rock kicking off the exciting shift. The Rock took the stage, announcing the promotion’s new era on Netflix.
While many fans anticipated him to be seen as the Final Boss, like in the past, the fans witnessed a different side of The Great One. In a surprising moment, The Rock thanked his rival Cody Rhodes for carrying WWE over the past year. He also called Roman Reigns the “Original Tribal Chief.”
The Rock’s actions stunned fans, who expected him to confront either Rhodes or Reigns. Later in the show, Roman Reigns battled Solo Sikoa in a Tribal Combat match. Reigns secured the victory, solidifying his place as the undisputed Tribal Chief. However, The Rock made another appearance during Reigns’ celebration.
Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman, present in the ring, appeared concerned as The Final Boss approached. The Great One honored Reigns by presenting him with the Ula Fala after his victory over Solo Sikoa and embraced him.
This moment seemed like a passing of the torch between The Rock and Roman Reigns. WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, who is related to both Superstars, felt it was a missed opportunity for The Final Boss to turn heel.
Rikishi weighs in on the missed opportunity for The Rock heel turn on WWE RAW
On the “Rikishi Off The Top” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi talked about The Rock confronting Roman Reigns following his match. He explained that it was a good way for The Great One to validate or pass the torch to Roman Reigns. While he found the moment beautiful, he also felt it was the perfect time for The Rock to turn heel.
He stated, “So when I see that happen on Monday Night Raw, it was a beautiful thing, man. But it also like, “Boy, if I wanted to turn heel, if you know, if it was, if The Rock wanted to turn heel, what a perfect time to do it.”
However, The Rock addressed his actions during his appearance on WWE NXT. He mentioned being 20 steps ahead, which led to speculation that his kindness might be part of a bigger master plan.
