Chicago Sun-Times: Rock's appearance on 'Raw' should boost WWE's ratings

The Rock means ratings, and ratings are what the WWE needs right now. So Monday on Raw," The Rock will return to the show as the guest on Chris Jericho's highlight reel.

What The Rock will have on his mind is anybody's guess, but it will be interesting to see if he takes Jericho's side, considering The Rock was beaten by Goldberg at the last pay-per-view event.

This is a one time deal for The Rock, who is in the middle of shooting his latest movie, but the WWE learned from its mistakes the last time and will be sure to keep The Rock on the fans' minds during his time away.

This movie should go a long way in determining The Rock's future. It seems as though his star is fading a bit in Hollywood because his name doesn't appear in mainstream circles as often as it once did. Should the movie flop, he might decide the fame and fortune in wrestling is the way to go. But a hit might cement him as a top action hero and might mark the end of his days in the ring.

Regardless of what happens down the road, his appearance on Raw" is certain to draw viewers. One has to wonder whether the WWE can take advantage of his appearance and put on an interesting show.

HEARD AROUND THE RING: As pointed out by HHH last week on Raw," Steve Austin was quite banged up after being involved in a car accident recently. No details were given on the show. ... The APA will make its return to the WWE on Thursday on SmackDown." A few months ago, it sounded as though the duo was done for good and Ron Simmons was retiring. ... Vince Russo made his return to NWA-TNA last week. He attacked Raven from behind, allowing the former Disco Inferno to pick up the victory. Raven had suffered a concussion the night before and was competing despite visible injuries. ... Note to the WWE: Give the Raw" belt to Ric Flair for a short title run. The fans were all over Flair during his match last week against HHH and were dying to see the title change hands. At this stage in his career, Flair plays the fan favorite much better than he does the heel. He would draw TV ratings and fill seats and could go out on top. The wrestling product always has been best when the champion appears vulnerable. When everyone knows the champ has no chance of losing, it makes for boring TV.

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