The Rock in WrestleMania 40 wasn’t just another event in the WWE calendar—it was a battleground where legends clashed and personal stories unfolded, capturing the imagination of millions worldwide. One of the most heated segments leading up to this year’s Showcase of the Immortals was between The Rock and Cody Rhodes, which escalated into a brutal encounter that not only thrilled fans but also struck a chord within Rhodes’ family.
A Mother’s Concern: The Emotional Toll of WWE Storylines
The drama unfolded on RAW, weeks before the big event, where fans witnessed The Rock delivering a severe beating to Cody Rhodes. This segment, characterized by its intense physicality, left Rhodes bloodied and battered, stirring a visceral reaction not just among fans but also within his closest circles. Michelle Rubio, Cody Rhodes’ mother, expressed her shock and dismay in a previously unaired interview with Bill Apter on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s UnSKripted.
Reacting to the graphic nature of the beatdown, Rubio described the segment as “harsh.” She shared her immediate thoughts, saying, “Well, I was surprised. I thought it was a bit harsh. But my son is gonna make it all worthwhile this weekend at WrestleMania 40. So I am not worried about The Rock. He is not gonna hurt me, he is not gonna hand me a bloody belt, none of that. It’s not gonna happen. I am not smelling what The Rock is cooking.” Her words, filled with a mix of concern and defiance, highlighted the emotional stakes involved when family members watch their loved ones perform in such high-intensity scenarios.
Triumph Over Adversity: Cody Rhodes’ WrestleMania Victory
Despite the brutal prelude, Cody Rhodes, dubbed “The American Nightmare,” faced The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, with resilience and determination. On the second night of WrestleMania 40, Rhodes achieved what many thought was nearly impossible—dethroning Reigns to become the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. This victory was not just a testament to his physical prowess but also a vindication of his mother’s faith in his abilities.
Reflecting on The Rock’s Legacy and the Power of Storytelling in WWE
The storyline between The Rock and Cody Rhodes exemplifies the deep narrative layers that WWE weaves into its programming. Such stories do more than entertain; they evoke real emotions and connect on a personal level with audiences and the performers’ families. Michelle Rubio’s candid reaction adds a humanizing touch to the spectacle, reminding us of the real impact of these staged yet physically demanding performances.
The greatest 5 minutes in WWE history. John Cena, Undertaker, Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, Seth Rollins and The Rock #WrestleMania#WrestleManiaXL #WrestleMania40pic.twitter.com/3PHBGtGcRq
— Lokesh Saini🚩 (@LokeshVirat18K) April 8, 2024
WrestleMania 40 will be remembered for many moments, but the saga of Cody Rhodes and The Rock will stand out as a particularly poignant chapter. It was a narrative of courage, redemption, and familial bonds—elements that remain at the heart of what makes WWE a powerhouse in sports entertainment. Cody’s victory was not just for the title but also a triumph of spirit, cheered on by a mother who believed, against all odds, in her son’s destiny to rise above and conquer.
