Report: Saudi Arabia set to make historic offer to The Rock to wrestle final match at WrestleMania 43

Saudi Arabia is reportedly preparing an unprecedented push to bring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson back into the ring for what could be the final match of his legendary pro wrestling career. It’ll all take place on the sport’s biggest stage.

According to Dave Meltzer via the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Johnson has emerged as a primary target for organizers in Saudi Arabia. The report indicates a strong desire to feature him on the mega-event of WrestleMania 43 in 2027.

Meltzer added that securing Johnson’s participation would require “the largest offer ever made for someone to do a pro wrestling show,” underscoring the scale of the effort.

The working vision, according to industry chatter, would be Johnson competing in the main event, with the event marking the first time WWE’s flagship event is held outside of North America. Nothing is finalized regarding any match, but the mere possibility would represent a legendary moment.

In response, Johnson has not shied away from the idea. During a recent appearance on the Raffi Talks podcast, he expressed enthusiasm for WrestleMania taking place in the Kingdom, even though it’s been the subject of great debate in North America among fans. 

“I’m excited for the brand of WrestleMania, I’m excited for the Kingdom because that is a big show,” Johnson stated. “I’m also excited for our athletes to be able to participate in an event like that. That is a global event.”

When asked specifically about his own involvement, though, Johnson struck an optimistic tone. Still, he decided to stop short of confirmation.

“In terms of the conversations I’ve been having, it’s all good,” he added. “It will always be good.”

Alas, Johnson was appointed to the board of directors for TKO Group Holdings in Jan. 2024. He last competed in a WWE ring at WrestleMania XL in Philadelphia.

That’s where he teamed with his cousin, Roman Reigns, to defeat Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins. Original plans called for Johnson to face Reigns in a blockbuster singles match, but fan backlash over sidelining Rhodes’ momentum forced a creative pivot by the company.

Meanwhile, the long-rumored Johnson vs. Reigns showdown remains one of wrestling’s most anticipated dream matches. Many believe Saudi Arabia could be the setting where it finally happens, where it would serve as Johnson’s final match, as well.

The groundwork has been set over the past decade. WWE has maintained a long-term partnership with the Saudi General Entertainment Authority since 2018, regularly hosting premium live events in the region.

While shows like Crown Jewel and Super ShowDown have become staples, hosting WrestleMania is a first, and their most ambitious move yet. They’ll be hosting this year’s edition of the Royal Rumble later this month, which will serve as a bit of a preview for what we can expect next year. 

For now, talks remain fluid with Johnson. If Saudi Arabia succeeds in bringing The Rock back into the ring, WrestleMania 43 could be remembered not just for where it took place, but for his final trip into the squared circle in one of the biggest matches of all time.