REVEALED: WWE Plans For The Rock's Heel Run

Although he has been a babyface during his sporadic appearances on WWE TV since 2004, The Rock has become a heel once again as the company builds towards WrestleMania 40.

The Rock initially returned to WWE TV in the new year as a babyface and he was presented as a fan favourite once again after Cody Rhodes effectively stepped aside for Dwayne Johnson to face Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 40 on the February 2 edition of Friday Night SmackDown. After Rhodes changed his mind at the WrestleMania 40 press conference and The Rock was serenaded with boos, Johnson turned heel, slapping Cody and leaving the press conference with Roman Reigns. This came only hours after Rock referred to Rhodes' fans as "Cody crybabies". 

The Rock will now fully embrace his heel turn, according to WrestleVotes. This will see Johnson revive elements of his 'Hollywood' Rock gimmick from 2003 and WWE will release "Cody crybabies" merchandise. 

"Sources suggest that The Rock is expected to fully embrace his heel turn, drawing inspiration from his past 'Hollywood' Rock persona. Additionally, I'm told to anticipate the release of Rock branded 'Cody Crybabies' merchandise. The story is just beginning..." WrestleVotes tweeted.

One element that seemingly won't be returning is the 'Hollywood' Rock entrance music that has only grown in popularity over the last 21 years, with WrestleVotes adding it is "unlikely" the 2003 theme will be utilised. 

The Rock is set to appear on Friday's episode of SmackDown.