>>9105659The main point of emphasis is that Rock did not bounce or spring off the ropes as much as he used to. Rock is 40-years-old now, is carrying muscle mass, and there was ring rust at the Rumble PPV. At 40, it's starting to be noticeable and it's more difficult to shake off the ring rust. The Rumble PPV match could be passed off as Rock holding back for the Chamber, especially knowing it would be a re-match against Punk. But, there is no hiding ring rust. - Rock is said to have no allies from the current locker room. Rock has isolated himself behind-the-scenes, which is due to how he feels he's been treated since returning to WWE and so that he can tend to other business affairs. But, there are also stories of how Rock has gone out of his way to talk to wrestlers and offer advice. It's a touchy situation, almost on a case-by-case basis how certain wrestlers receive him, which has led to mixed feelings about Rock's presence in WWE. Rock senses it. According to backstage sources, Rock feels like he's being scrutinized by the current locker room. After his memorable pre- match promo during the Rumble PPV, Rock carried himself like, 'How do you like that everyone who doubts me?' There was an extra spring in his step, which some observers took as either adrenaline before the match or arrogance. As an "outsider," it came across like Rock telling people, 'Don't forget that I can do that. Now, you step up and do it.' - Also from Rock's pre-title match promo, Rock did not stray from the truth when he said he came back to WWE for the fans and for his mom, who was shown in the crowd. The message is that he did not come back to WWE for the wrestlers, especially due to how he feels he's been treated since returning. It comes down to Rock enjoying the live-crowd interaction and having a rich family tradition in the wrestling business.
