Chicago Sun-Times: Rock could heat up summer for WWE

Right now the Rock is a full-time movie star and part-time wrestling icon, but with summer (and "SummerSlam") approaching rapidly, the "People's Champion" could be coming to the rescue for the WWE.

The Rock made a surprise return earlier in the year to aid Mick Foley in his feud with Evolution, and he recently rescued Eugene from the taunting of the Coach -- both times to enormous fan reactions. But those were just one-time deals, and the WWE needs his star power on a more full-time basis.

The next opportunity will be in three weeks, when "Raw" makes its way to the Rock's hometown of Miami. What better way to kick off the road to "SummerSlam" than to have the "Great One" make an emotional return to Florida and announce his intentions to make a commitment to the ring?

Let's be honest -- the Rock's movie efforts have been solid, but nothing off the charts. And really, what kind of commitment would it be? Two Monday nights a month and a PPV event every other month? The WWE could tape interviews or backstage confrontations weeks he was there for playback on weeks he was not.

History has shown the Rock has a unique ability to shake off ring rust quickly and put fans in front of TVs. Right out of the gate, the Rock feuding with HHH, Orton, Kane or even a title run vs. Chris Benoit could single-handedly bring the WWE back to prominence.

AROUND THE RING: Vince McMahon said recently we likely never will see Hulk Hogan, Sting or the Mr. McMahon character on WWE TV again simply because the time and money invested does not compensate for the development time lost for younger stars. ... Christian will miss two to three more weeks recovering from a back injury. ... Kurt Angle is getting closer to having his third neck surgery. ... Shawn Michaels and Booker T are considering taking extended leaves from the WWE.