If and when Rhodes dethrones Reigns as undisputed WWE universal champion at WrestleMania in April, the next chapter of the story should be to begin building to Rock vs. Reigns for the next installment immediately.
What's especially intriguing about holding off until next year for that dream match is that, by then, Reigns could be on the verge of turning babyface for the first time in nearly five years.
The dynamic could change completely with The Tribal Chief being positioned as the fan favorite and Rock portraying the hated heel. That's not what fans would have expected a month ago, but it would make for a much more compelling storyline heading into WrestleMania 41 if WWE chose to go in that direction.
Of course, Reigns shouldn't embrace the audience until after he loses the title first. That historic run should be ended while he's a heel to fully maximize the moment, but once he's been conquered, Rock can capitalize on his vulnerability and seize control of The Bloodline.
Rock vs. Reigns will always be the endgame, but The Tribal Chief could emerge as the biggest beneficiary if WWE sticks the landing with his current character arc while The Great One stays the course with his heel turn.
Graham Mirmina, aka Graham "GSM" Matthews, has specialized in sports and entertainment writing since 2010. Visit his website, WrestleRant, and subscribe to his YouTube channel for more wrestling-related content.
