Jinder Mahal Says He Wants to Wrestle The Rock

Current WWE champion Jinder Mahal called The Rock his "dream opponent" and believes there's a "real chance" a match between them that could eventually take place.

On Friday, Lennard Surrao of Sportskeeda passed along comments from the top titleholder on the SmackDown brand about a potential feud with wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne Johnson.

"I think The Rock would be my perfect pick just because he's such a huge Superstar and growing up he was one of my favorites, you know he was my idol," Mahal said. "Just everything—from the way he spoke to his fashion sense to his style in the ring—you know he was a very fierce competitor."

Mahal has enjoyed a meteoric rise in recent months. The former jobber, who was released by the marquee wrestling organization in June 2014, rejoined the company last July and steadily received more prominent opportunities.

His sustained push, which came following his work to showcase an improved physique, led to a WWE title match against Randy Orton at Backlash. He proceeded to become one of the most surprising champions in recent memory after help from the Singh Brothers.

Now the 30-year-old breakout sensation is shooting for the stars by angling for a feud with The Rock should he make another return to the WWE.

"You know I think it's still possible and can happen one day," Mahal said. "He likes to come back to the WWE every once in a while. I think it's a real chance that the opportunity can come to fruition."

The Rock hasn't appeared regularly on WWE television since a stint as WWE champion that ended with a loss to John Cena at WrestleMania 29 in 2013. He's made occasional appearances in recent years, but never for a complete program with another wrestler.

Another full-time return to the ring might be a long shot. Last month, he discussed the idea of running for United States president during an interview with Caity Weaver of GQ.

"I think that it's a real possibility," Johnson said.

That said, if The Rock opts against pursuing the highest office in the land and makes his presence felt in the WWE again, Mahal is hoping he's chosen as the foe for the The People's Champion.