The Rock's RAW promo was a setup for future storyline, WWE legend thinks (Exclusive)

The Rock's WWE character change was one of the most talked-about topics after the first RAW episode on Netflix. Teddy Long watched the Hollywood star's promo and does not think his rivalry with Cody Rhodes is over yet.

On January 6, The Rock appeared on RAW as a babyface despite portraying the villainous Final Boss in the build-up to WrestleMania XL in 2024. He even complimented Rhodes for his work as Undisputed WWE Champion and shared a drink with his rival backstage.

Many fans criticized The Rock's drastic transformation, which seemingly signaled the end of his feud with The American Nightmare. However, on Sportskeeda's The Wrestling Time Machine, Long predicted that the story will continue:

"He's real clever, and you got to pay attention to him and you got to pay attention to what he says because sometimes things that he says, they also have a clue, but you gotta pay attention to that. But, like I said, I don't think this thing with him and Cody is gonna end right now. In my opinion, I think this is a setup." [1:57 – 2:15]

Host Mac Davis and WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff joined Teddy Long on the latest episode of The Wrestling Time Machine. Watch the video above to hear Bischoff's take on why fans should reserve judgment on The Rock's interactions with Cody Rhodes.

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How WWE RAW could look in the Netflix era

RAW's Netflix premiere featured several notable moments, including John Cena's Royal Rumble announcement and Rhea Ripley's Women's World Championship win over Liv Morgan.

Reacting to The Rock's RAW promo, Mac Davis said he expects more storyline developments on the red brand in the coming weeks:

"I hope that on the next Netflix show we get the actual format of what RAW will feel like going forward because, like you two guys said earlier, I think the premiere show on Netflix was basically a brand show. 'Here we are, here's what we're about, and enjoy it.' It didn't really do much as far as stories go, so I think on the next show we should start seeing that." [2:17 – 2:39]

On January 13, Damian Priest and Finn Balor will battle in a Street Fight on the next RAW episode on Netflix. The show will also feature Dakota Kai vs. Lyra Valkyria in the Women's Intercontinental Championship tournament final.

What are your thoughts on The Rock's WWE RAW promo? Hit the discuss button and let us know.

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