Generating quite a buzz in the wrestling world, as per a previous report from PWMania.com, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority is actively pursuing WWE legend Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to headline WrestleMania 43 in Riyadh next year. Negotiations are progressing; be that as it may, The Rock’s demanding Hollywood schedule may pose significant challenges in securing his participation, as noted by Dave Meltzer on the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Radio.
Vin Diesel in recent days shared that filming for “Fast Forever,” the planned eleventh installment in the Fast & Furious franchise — is set to begin later this December. Diesel mentioned to Variety final week, “We start shooting in December, if I can make praiseworthy on the request from the studio.” The Rock, whose reappearance as Luke Hobbs was teased during a post-credits scene in “Fast X” in 2023, is anticipated to reprise his role in the looming sequel, which is planned for theatrical release on March 17, 2028.
Meltzer spelled out that since filming “Fast Forever” will likely take several months — The Rock’s participation in a match at The showcase of the immortals may be unrealistic. There could be a possibility for his involvement, he highlighted that if The Rock receives a substantial offer. On the other hand, Meltzer expressed uncertainty about when The Rock would find time to train while working on the film. He emphasized that The Rock, known for his dedication, would not perform in the ring without adequate preparation, given his strong work ethic.
He is confident that that an appearance at The Grandest Stage of Them All is possible, while Meltzer does not foresee The Rock participating in a showdown. He noted that, above all in Saudi Arabia, the financial incentive to bring in The Rock would be significant, that expressed from a timing perspective, it seems unlikely he will be able to compete.
The Rock has not made an appearance on WWE television since the Elimination Chamber premium live event in Toronto in 2025, where he ordered John Cena to attack then-Undisputed WWE Title holder Cody Rhodes after Rhodes declined The Rock’s offer to ally with him. The Rock has expressed his excitement for The showcase of the immortals 43 in a recent interview with Raffi Talks — stating that his discussions with WWE have been positive and will always remain so.