The Final Boss is coming back — but what does he have in store for the WWE Universe?
On Thursday night, WWE issued a press release announcing that The Rock will appear on Friday’s episode of SmackDown. This week’s episode of SmackDown emanates from the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
“Strap in,” said WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque. “When The Final Boss shows up at this time of year, the audience knows absolutely anything is possible. Everything could change in an instant.”
The Rock also commented on his return to WWE TV, writing the following on social media:
“Bold and disruptive. Unpredictable and dangerous. The Final Boss returns, LIVE on #SmackDown tomorrow at 8ET/7CT on @USANetwork.”
There is plenty of speculation about the reason for The Rock’s appearance. Earlier in the day, he shared a video on Instagram claiming he had a “day 1” move to complete. New Orleans is also heavily rumored to be the host city for WrestleMania 42 in 2026.
Ricky Saints has a big WrestleMania goal
Ricky Saints recently addressed the rumors that New Orleans will get WrestleMania 42 during an appearance on Busted Open After Dark. Saints was asked about a potential main roster callup. He mentioned the reports about New Orleans and said if true, he’d find a way to make his dream of wrestling there at a WrestleMania happen.
“Absolutely I would,” Ricky Saints said. “We got New Orleans supposedly rumored, right? WrestleMania next year in New Orleans. Did you read about that? I heard about the rumor as well. If the rumor is true, that is my goal, to wrestle at the Superdome.
“That’s all I want, and I’m gonna make it happen now. If that opportunity presents itself, I don’t know, a month from now and then, that’s the lead up to it, I’m taking it. But either way, if it’s a month, or if it’s 12 months, whatever the case may be, the impact of me in NXT will be felt. There is no doubt about that.”
