WrestleMania 40: WWE Legend Explains Why Dwayne Johnson Was the Preferred WrestleMania 40 Main-Event Choice Over Cody Rhodes

The WWE Universe went crazy when Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson came out to challenge Roman Reigns on the Day #1 Edition of WWE RAW. However, things took a turn for the worse after Cody Rhodes won the Royal Rumble. Despite having the right to challenge Reigns for the WWE Universal title, Rhodes gave his spot to Johnson. This angered wrestling fans before the WWE reverted back to Rhodes vs. Reigns matchup at WrestleMania.

But why did the WWE opt to have Johnson comeback to face Reigns instead of granting the Royal Rumble winner his right? One WWE Legend may have the answer.

Dutch Mantell explains why Dwayne Johnson and Roman Reigns will sell tickets

Wayne Maurice Keown, better known in the WWE by Dutch Mantell or Zeb Colter in the WWE, has been part of pro wrestling since 1972. Not only has he been a manager but he also played a vital part in the success of The Ultimate Warrior, The Undertaker, Kane, Sting, etc. Currently, he runs a YouTube channel titled Story Time with Dutch Mantell. He amassed many fans thanks to his vast experience and knowledge in pro wrestling. During his last video, he talked about why the WWE pushed Johnson vs Reigns despite Rhodes being the winner of the Royal Rumble. In the video, he said, “They’re not wrestling fans, but they are wrestling fans.”

Here, Mantell is talking about the people who merged the UFC and WWE. The people apart from Vince McMahon who are now in charge of the WWE. He explained how those people are not religious wrestling fans and know the product. They’re here to sell tickets.

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He went on, “They remember The Rock from 15 years ago, and when they see Rock versus Roman Reigns, well, that’s the first thing that jumps at them.” This explains why the WWE decided to turn The Rock heel again. Due to the fan sentiment being against the WWE legend, it was a wise idea for The Brahma Bull to be the bad guy against the favorite. He moved on to why Rhodes was initially snubbed.

Mantell explains why The Rock is a bigger draw than Cody Rhodes

Mantell explained, “When they hear Cody Rhodes they go No… No… No. I mean, you know, if we’re going to sell tickets and pay-per-views, it’s got to be The Rock and Roman Reigns.” Despite Rhodes being the current biggest babyface in the WWE, The Rock’s legacy ensures that he remains the top dog in the promotion. Nevertheless, a matchup between has been something that fans have been clamoring for a long time.

However, the timing of it and the forceful insertion of it into Cody Rhodes’ storyline did not gain appraisal from the wrestling faithful.

The notable pro wrestling figure also mentioned that the current people who run the WWE may want to recreate the things that made WWE famous 10-15 years ago. That is what they remember, and what they know made the WWE a ton of money and brought it success. What do you think about Mantell’s words? Do you agree? Tell us down below.

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