This SmackDown episode surprised the audience as The Bloodline started the show. Knowing Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson would follow, fans were excited. Despite insulting the crowd in Phoenix, Arizona, they still cheered for The People’s Champ, though there was a fair share of boos thrown in. After issuing a counter-challenge to Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins for WrestleMania XL Night #1, Roman Reigns had something to ask from Johnson. This would be the first time the two spoke to each other in the ring, and what Reigns had to ask blew the fans away.
Roman Reigns tells Dwayne Johnson to acknowledge him as The Tribal Chief
After an explosive opening for SmackDown, Johnson was ready to do his iconic “If you can smell…” bit. However, as he bowed down for it, he was stopped by Reigns. This got a massive pop from the audience. Taking the mic, Reigns claimed that he would do anything for his family. But, this time, he needed something from Johnson. The tension in the air was thick. Looking Johnson in his eyes, Reigns told Johnson to acknowledge him.
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The Rock acknowledges Roman Reigns as his tribal chief.
And the crowd chants “you sold out”.#SmackDown
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) March 2, 2024
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This has been something that has not happened yet. While on Reigns’ side, Johnson has not acknowledged him as his Tribal Chief. Throughout the promo, it was evident that this was what Reigns had burning in his mind, and he finally let it out. Before Johnson could say anything, Reigns had a sour look on his face. This has been something that the WWE has been building up. Every time Johnson spoke on the mic, Reigns would take a backseat. After a long pause and removing his sunglasses, The Rock said, “I acknowledge you as my Tribal chief.”
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The entire stadium erupted with “You sold out,” chants. However, neither Reigns nor Johnson were phased by this as they embraced solidifying the unity of Johnson and The Bloodline. Something interesting throughout the entire segment was the reactions by Reigns and Solo Sikoa while Johnson was talking. Both men looked disinterested; unlike last time, there was no enthusiasm. This could be WWE’s way of building tension among The Bloodline. There could be a power struggle between Johnson and Reigns, leading to The Bloodline being dissolved or Reigns losing at Mania. What did you think about the promo, and do you think Johnson meant what he said to Reigns? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.