The Rock is not going to compete at WrestleMania 41; TNA star explains reason for breaking character

The Rock was present on a WWE show twice this week, kicking off the new year on a high. At least, in theory.

His role on the Netflix premiere episode of RAW was met with a mixed reaction from viewers. Many are unsure what to make of his interaction with Cody Rhodes, which some believe was disrespectful to the storytelling WWE has done thus far and to The American Nightmare. Matt Hardy has now weighed in on the subject.

Speaking on The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy, the former WWE Superstar shared his honest thoughts on why The Rock broke character this week right after his return. Hardy believes the wrestler-turned-actor will not be part of WrestleMania 41 in a wrestling capacity:

"I get why people are upset. But I think what they are doing is moving Rock into a position where he will be a better representative and ambassador of the company. I think that was the whole motive behind it. It's a reset. They could have done it better, possibly. They could have done it and kept some kind of continuity to what they were doing. But I just think they went, f**k it. Let's just do this and get it done. We want Rock in this position, to be an ambassador for WWE." [From 42:50 to 43:19]

Interestingly, The Rock kept fans buzzing after RAW as he showed up on NXT the following night. He gave a glimpse into his 'Final Boss' persona there, too, mocking those who support Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.

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Triple H says The Rock can always change plans if he wants to ahead of WrestleMania 41

Ahead of RAW's debut on Netflix, WWE CCO Triple H discussed The Rock's role and the potential for a match at WrestleMania 41.

In an interview with SI Media's Jimmy Traina, The Game praised his former on-screen rival, calling him "the biggest box office star in the world." However, there appears to be some level of uncertainty regarding The Final Boss for this year's spectacle in April:

"The one thing about The Rock, you can call him The Final Boss, in a way it's an accurate statement. He is, I don't want to say more so than anybody else, but he is the biggest box office star in the world. He has earned the right and is in the position to do what he wants to do. He does what is right for WWE and the projects that he works on."

Triple H also admitted that he has multiple plans for WrestleMania 41 and that The Rock is always collaborative with him and Nick Khan. Ultimately, The Game did not rule out the Attitude Era star's in-ring return.

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If you use the first quote, please credit The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy and give an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.