The Rock and Cody Rhodes confronted each other on the February 21st episode of SmackDown. During the segment, Dwayne Johnson referenced his position on the TKO Group Holdings board of directors and stated he wanted The American Nightmare to become “his champion.”
Fan reaction to the segment was mixed, with some criticizing its length and Johnson’s late inclusion in WrestleMania 41 plans. Critics suggested The Great One’s involvement disrupted established storylines leading to the event.
Tommy Dreamer addressed these concerns during the latest episode of Busted Open After Dark. The wrestling veteran defended Johnson’s approach by drawing comparisons to former WWE chairman’s on-screen persona.
I know what he’s doing, and I understand, and even, we have had a caller already call in and be like, ‘He’s channeling a bit of Vince McMahon,’ when it was corporate Vince. He’s also being an evil boss, and I get, ‘Hey, I announced WrestleMania [42], and I heel-ed the people a little bit; I babyfaced people a little bit.’ He literally told you he was coming on the show to disrupt things. So he’s doing that, and your boss can do that.
Dreamer’s comments highlight The Rock’s intentional portrayal of an authoritative figure, combining elements of both a corporate executive and antagonistic character. His defense suggests Johnson deliberately embraced this role as part of WWE’s storytelling leading into WrestleMania 41.