WWE Rumor Roundup: Backstage reaction to The Rock's return, former WWE talent in talks with TNA & more (February 24, 2025)

Let’s discuss the latest rumors circulating among fans on social media!

Speculations and rumors are among some of the favorite pastimes for WWE fans worldwide. Fans around the world enjoy discussing and debating various aspects of the pro wrestling world. The road to WrestleMania has kicked off with the Royal Rumble PLE and the next stop on the road is the Elimination Chamber PLE and fans have started speculating about the matches and appearances.

In today’s edition of the rumor roundup, we cover the latest rumors and news circulating among fans on social media, including The Rock’s return on SmackDown, Released WWE stars in talks with TNA, WWE’s recent trademark filing, AJ Styles vs Finn Balor and more.

The Rock’s return on SmackDown

The Rock recently made his return during the 02/24 episode of Friday Night SmackDown where he announced the location and date for the 42nd edition of WrestleMania and was involved in a segment with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.

According to Wrestling Observer, WWE writers were caught off guard by The Rock’s surprise appearance on SmackDown. They say it wasn’t as last-minute as people have made it out to be, but the belief is that his schedule might have shifted for WrestleMania.

Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio also commented on the segment stating that The Rock turned more times in that segment than the Big Show (Paul Wight) did in his career.

“You should have watched that segment and known exactly what’s going on and, as one person there told me, ‘In one segment he turned more than The Big Show did in his entire career.’ Which is an exaggeration but I think he turned three or four times,” Meltzer said on Wrestling Observer Radio.

Released WWE stars in talks with TNA

A recent report from Sportskeeda’s Dr. Chris Featherstone on Backstage Pass states that TNA Wrestling is extremely interested in signing former WWE star Elektra Lopez.

According to the report, Lopez is in discussions with the company about making her debut once her 90-day no-compete clause ends. It also mentions that Lopez was recently seen backstage at a TNA television taping and, while other companies are showing interest, she seems to be leaning towards TNA.

WWE’s recent trademark filing

According to Fightful Select, WWE’s recent trademark filing for “Kalyx” is for referee Jessika Carr, who has been working under a mask at recent Evolve tapings.

AJ Styles vs Finn Balor & Rick Saints’ AEW exit

Dave Meltzer revealed in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that AJ Styles vs Finn Balor isn’t currently scheduled for WrestleMania 41. Styles recently made his return during the men’s Royal Rumble match and subsequently joined Monday Night Raw.

Meltzer also pointed out that WWE’s newest signee Ricky Starks wasn’t utilized by AEW for an extended period because Tony Khan thought he would eventually end up in WWE.

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