Chicago Sun-Times: Rock's return revives 'Raw,' then news gets even better

When Mick Foley was confronted by La Resistance on Monday night on "Raw," there was little question that a WWE superstar was going to come down the ramp and save the day. Little did anyone realize that the Rock would be the man to come to Foley's side.

The Anaheim audience was electric as the People's Champ made his unexpected WWE return and in classic Rock form dispatched of La Resistance in short order. The Rock and Sock connection was back for a moment -- and immediately, fans began to wonder if the Rock was back for good.

The good news for fans came after the show when the Rock said he will return to the company in January to do a series of matches leading up to the "Royal Rumble" PPV before leaving again to promote his new movie. The news got better when the Rock revealed he was coming back for good in March and undoubtedly will be part of "WrestleMania XX."

The Rock said there was no way he would miss the biggest show in history, and he will not be making just a guest appearance. Rumors immediately spread that the Rock will be put into a feud with John Cena, leading up to a match at "Mania," but that seems to be off base. At this point I have to think HHH or Kane would be considered the leading candidates.

Whatever shakes loose, "Raw" is better now than it has been in a long time, and Mick Foley is the main reason. Once Stone Cold Steve Austin returns, we should see the beginning of his feud with Vince McMahon leading up to a "WrestleMania" match between the two that should be classic TV.

HEARD AROUND THE RING: Today is "WWE Armageddon," a show that features a three-way dance for the World Title as Goldberg defends the title vs. HHH and Kane. I hear there might be a confusing finish that could leave the belt vacant heading into "Monday Night Raw." ... The "SmackDown" brand had a terrible flight while touring in Asia last week and left many superstars quite rattled. Word is the bad travel is the main reason why Nathan Jones quit the company.

HOTLINE: I have two more matches being added to the "Armageddon" PPV lineup and what Mick Foley has planned for Evolution as the guest referee. All this and more on the hotline: (900) 990-SLAM ($2 per minute).