For the first time ever, The Rock appeared live on WWE NXT and left a lasting impression in his debut on the brand.
As announced ahead of time, Rock closed out the New Year’s Evil special episode of NXT on January 7th. Receiving a very positive reaction from the fans with sustained “Rocky” chants, The People’s Champion opened his promo by stating they only had 6 minutes and 33 seconds of the show left but promised the fans it would be a memorable 6 minutes.
Opening with his catchphrases and thanking the fans, Rock then brought up his appearance on the Raw on Netflix premiere episode the night before, which saw no reference to The Final boss and no animosity towards Cody Rhodes or Roman Reigns. Aware that much like last year there is some negativity towards him from the fans, Rock reminded the fans who he is and to enjoy the ride:
“The Rock is the Final Boss thinking twenty steps ahead, so the best thing for them to do is to know their role, shut their mouths, and enjoy the ride that The Rock is taking them on.”
Putting over NXT, Rock also stated that he had the appearance planned for weeks before thanking the fans again and stated that although the Raw on Netflix show was the show fans had to go to, NXT is the show the fans want to go to.
Ending his promo right at the last second, Rock uttered his signature “If you smell…” catchphrase before the feed cut to end the show.
The Rock Confronts Former NXT Champion Ethan Page
Ahead of the live appearance, Rock interrupted a meeting backstage between former NXT Champion Ethan Page and NXT General Manager Ava. Rock reminded Page that although he is The Final Boss, Ava is The Final Boss of NXT. Rock stated that Page needed to respect Ava and hoped to see him on the main roster one day. Following Page’s exit, Ava told Rock that there is nothing like an NXT crowd and he should just feel the crowd.
Also on the Raw on Netflix premiere, The Rock acknowledged Roman Reigns.