WWE fans got an unexpected surprise on SmackDown when Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson ditched his iconic entrance music for a special remix of Lil Wayne’s classic 1999 single, Tha Block is Hot.
The electrifying moment took place during SmackDown in New Orleans, where The Rock’s entrance video was also altered to showcase visuals of the city. His surprise appearance wasn’t just for show—he came to deliver a massive announcement: WrestleMania 42 will be held in New Orleans next year.
The Rock Pays Tribute to Lil Wayne and Louisiana Hip Hop
Speaking at a press conference after the event, The Rock explained why he chose Tha Block is Hot for his entrance.
“I’ve always been a big fan of Lil Wayne. I’ve always been a big fan of Louisiana Hip Hop—from Master P, Juvenile, Birdman, 504. All of those guys,” he said. “I came up in Miami and South Florida. Those are my influences. I love all of those guys. I felt like, we’re coming to New Orleans.”
He continued:
“I have a big announcement: we are bringing WrestleMania to New Orleans. For years, before I would go out and wrestle in these matches, whether here in New Orleans or around the world throughout the United States, I was always listening to all of those guys. I figured, now I’m going to go out, let’s take a moment. I wanted to give love and respect to the OGs.
“This is Lil Wayne’s city. I love Kendrick, that’s my guy. I love the NFL and I love the Super Bowl. I loved his performance. It was my way of showing love to the OG of New Orleans and that’s Lil Wayne. Tha Block is Hot, specifically, I wanted that one.”
Lil Wayne and WWE: A Growing Connection
Lil Wayne is no stranger to WWE. At last year’s WrestleMania, the Carter III rapper performed A Milli while accompanying The Rock’s cousin, Jey Uso, to the ring.
He’s not the only rap legend with deep ties to WWE, either. Snoop Dogg has made multiple WrestleMania appearances, even stepping into the ring at WrestleMania 39, where he delivered The People’s Elbow—The Rock’s signature finishing move.
With The Rock paying homage to Louisiana rap and WrestleMania officially returning to New Orleans, WWE is clearly embracing hip-hop culture in a major way. Fans will have to wait and see if Lil Wayne himself makes an appearance when the event takes over the Big Easy next year.
