The Rock ‘done with WWE’ as fresh transformation for new movie sparks fears wrestling career over

The Rock’s dramatic weight loss for consecutive film roles has intensified retirement speculation and insiders see no near-term WWE return. Betting implication: odds should lengthen on a Rock appearance at WrestleMania 2026 — punters may avoid return props and instead back established WWE stars in main-event markets.

The Rock’s Transformation Fuels Retirement Talk

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s recent, visibly leaner appearance on the red carpet has reignited debate about whether his in-ring era is over. Once famous for a powerhouse build that defined his wrestling prime, the 53-year-old now looks more like a leading man preparing film roles than a main-event wrestler preparing for the ring.

Why the Change?

Johnson bulked up for his role portraying MMA legend Mark Kerr, reportedly adding around 30 pounds for the part. He then revealed at festivals that he slimmed down again to take on another role from director Benny Safdie, jokingly calling himself “your Chicken Man” and saying the new part will require “eating less chicken.” The rapid swing between heavy bulking and deliberate slimming has produced the stark contrast fans are reacting to.

Film Commitments and a Crowded Schedule

A steady slate of movie projects and business commitments has pushed Johnson’s availability in a different direction. The time and physical prep that a pro wrestling return requires would be difficult to reconcile with film shoots, promotional duties and family life. That packed calendar makes another extended wrestling comeback increasingly unlikely.

Insider Signals Point Away from WWE

People close to the situation indicate there’s no current plan for a near-term WWE return. After the high-profile tag outing at WrestleMania 40 alongside Roman Reigns, many viewed that appearance as a potential final hurrah. With no sign of scheduled ring time, the smarter expectation is that The Rock’s in-ring days are on pause — possibly indefinitely.

What This Means for WWE Storylines and Betting Markets

WWE can still capitalise on The Rock’s legacy, but the odds that he’ll factor into long-term creative plans appear to be shrinking. For bettors, this story has direct implications: prop markets that hinge on a Rock return (WrestleMania appearances, surprise show-ups, or match outcomes involving him) should be treated skeptically. Wagers on established, active stars and confirmed matchups now offer more reliable value than speculative Rock props.

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Family Ties and Ongoing Influence

Johnson’s daughter has risen to prominence within the company’s developmental brand, offering a potential route for the family legacy to continue in WWE without his full-time return. While The Rock’s presence may remain influential off-screen and in pop culture, the image of him as a lean film star suggests his wrestling chapter is moving toward history rather than a new act.

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has looked almost unrecognisable in recent weeks – and it’s left fans wondering if his in-ring story is finally over

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