Real Reason WWE CENSORED The Rock

Why WWE made major edits to The Rock's SmackDown return promo last week.

By Andy H Murray /

WWE.com

WWE's heavy edits to Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's return promo on last week's episode of SmackDown were a product of concerns over possible FFC violations, rather than WWE's longstanding TV-PG rating.

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Fightful Select has reported as much. The outlet noted that being TV-PG doesn't actually prevent "foul language" on WWE programming, as the regulations aren't enforced in the same way as an MPAA rating for films or ESRB for video games.

Rock's in-ring promo with Austin Theory and Pat McAfee saw the returning legend lead chants of "you're an ***hole" against Theory, necessitating heavy censoring.

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The comeback segment came completely out of the blue on Friday. Fightful notes, understandably, that WWE didn't list Rock's appearance on internal SmackDown rundowns.

The Rock was in a reflective mood when discussing the promo on X, posting:

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I was - I’m still - completely blown away by this crowd reaction in Denver this past Friday night on SMACKDOWN. My appearance was a [100 emoji] 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 s***” 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

WWE is yet to announce a follow-up appearance from The Rock.