WWE creative assumes Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson likely unavailable for WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia in April 2027

WWE creative is operating under the assumption that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will not be available for substantial storyline participation at WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia in April 2027, according to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select. The report says the company is preparing its creative plans on that basis.

The WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select report notes this assumption does not entirely close the door on Johnson’s involvement, as a source reportedly noted plans involving Johnson can "change in an instant," leaving the possibility of a late adjustment. WWE is said to be moving forward without building WrestleMania 43 storylines around The Rock. WrestleMania 43 is expected to mark the first time WWE takes its flagship event outside North America, with Saudi Arabia set to host the show, and the company has yet to announce date(s) though the event is expected to remain a two-night spectacle.

The Rock’s availability has been a talking point for some time, and last month reports suggested Saudi Arabia wanted Johnson to wrestle at WrestleMania 43. Dave Meltzer reported that Johnson’s filming commitments for the latest Fast & Furious movie could make an in-ring appearance difficult. Those contrasting reports have contributed to the current cautious approach by WWE creative.

Johnson has not appeared for WWE since March 2025, when he was involved in the aftermath of John Cena’s heel turn against Cody Rhodes at Elimination Chamber. His most recent WWE match took place at WrestleMania 40, where he teamed with Roman Reigns against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins. Since WrestleMania 40, his WWE presence largely centered on a storyline involving Rhodes and Cena, though that program is now over.

For the time being, WWE appears to be planning WrestleMania 43 without The Rock playing a major role, and his involvement has not been confirmed. The company is reportedly working under the assumption he will not be available for substantial storyline participation. Given the reported possibility that plans can "change in an instant," his status could still develop considerably before the event.

WWE has not announced the exact date(s) for WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia in April 2027; with no confirmation on The Rock’s role, any change in his availability would need to be resolved before the promotion finalizes its WrestleMania 43 creative plans.