general | March 07, 2026

The Rock Makes Epic Return To WWE, Destroys Austin Theory Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Returns To WWE After 4 Years ... Annihilates Ex-Champ Austin Theory 15.2K 9/16/2023 5:39 AM PT

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Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson knows how to make an entrance and he proved it in a big way with his surprise return to the WWE after nearly 4 years.

😱😱😱@TheRock is here!!!!!!!#SmackDown

— WWE (@WWE) September 16, 2023 @WWE

The Rock stunned the packed crowd watching WWE Smackdown at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado Friday night, when he stepped out from behind a backdrop to his signature song, "Electrifying," playing loudly over the sound system.

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's Workout Shots Launch Gallery
The Rock's Workout Shots Launch Gallery

Everyone went berserk, cheering like crazy and shooting cell phone video to capture the epic moment. You may recall, the last time the WWE legend had suited up for a wrestling match was in October 2019.

THE MOST ELECTRIFYING MOVE IN ALL OF ENTERTAINMENT

A People's Elbow from @TheRock AND @PatMcAfeeShow!!!#SmackDown

— WWE (@WWE) September 16, 2023 @WWE

After the initial shock, The Rock made his way to the ring, where former WWE U.S. Champion Austin Theory and ex-NFL punter Pat McAfee were giving each other some lip.

The Rock got in on the action, trading insults with Theory as the tension grew.

WWE

Finally, The Rock sent Theory over the edge after calling him an "a**hole" -- and even getting the audience to chant, "You are an a**hole."

Theory threw a flurry of punches that hit their mark, but The Rock quickly turned the tables and gave his opponent a spinebuster.

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With Theory laid out on the canvas, The Rock delivered his famous “people’s elbow."

It was all over after that. Theory was down for the count.

the rock wwe WWE

The Rock is back!!!!

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