The Rock Reflects On 9/15 WWE SmackDown Appearance, Calls It Top 5 Loudest Reaction Of Career

Finally….The Rock came back to WWE. 

On Friday’s WWE SmackDown, The Rock made a surprise appearance to open the show as a guest of Pat McAfee to confront Austin Theory. The Rock happened to be in town for the Colorado vs. Colorado St. game, which garnered national attention thanks to the coaching acumen of Deion Sanders. 

Rock’s appearance on SmackDown was his first time in front of the live WWE audience since the premiere episode of WWE SmackDown on Fox in October 2019. 

Taking to social media, Rock posted the following comments regarding his return: 

I was – I’m still – completely blown away by this crowd reaction in Denver this past Friday night on SMACKDOWN. 

My appearance was a — surprise to everyone and this crowd of 14,000 erupted with the roar of 100,000 strong. 

Top 5 loudest crowd reaction of my career ——– 
(which I was like “holy shit” when I walked out –) 

I’m so grateful and humbled by this. 
I never take it for granted and “coming home” will always be sacred to me. 

Thank you my guy PatMac, the talented Austin Theory,
@wwe
 family backstage, Team Rock behind the scenes – everyone who joined us to go ALL IN. 

But most importantly, thank you with all my love, gratitude and respect, to THE PEOPLE. 

Our connection is real. 
Electrifying. 

~ people’s champ —

I was – I’m still – completely blown away by this crowd reaction in Denver this past Friday night on SMACKDOWN.

My appearance was a — surprise to everyone and this crowd of 14,000 erupted with the roar of 100,000 strong.

Top 5 loudest crowd reaction of my career ——–… pic.twitter.com/IYXcD0yCzN

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) September 17, 2023

Rock appeared on McAfee’s show on Friday afternoon, revealing a match with Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39 was “locked,” but obviously never happened. 

Rock said he’s open to a match at WrestleMania 40. You can find his full comments by clicking here.