Dwayne Johnson, often referred to by his wrestling moniker “The Rock,” is a globally recognized figure known for his accomplishments in professional wrestling and his successful transition into a highly sought-after actor and producer. Johnson has captivated audiences worldwide with his charismatic personality, impressive physique, and undeniable talent. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson often credits his father for his accomplishments.
While Dwayne Johnson admired his father’s accomplishments and wrestling legacy, their relationship faced challenges as well. In his autobiography, “The Rock Says,” Dwayne opened up about the difficulties he experienced growing up with a father who was often absent due to the demanding nature of the wrestling business.
During his recent appearance on “The Pivot Podcast,” Dwayne discussed his complicated relationship with his father, Rocky Johnson. He also disclosed the story behind his dad getting kicked out of the house at a young age. Rock stated that his dad grew up the other way, as he was kicked out of the house at 13.
“Quick story, it was Christmas, my dad’s dad had died a year earlier. And there was a new boyfriend in the mix, he came over, and they had their Turkey. And the boyfriend got drunk and peed on the Turkey. My dad was 13, they got into a fight. And he drew a line in the dirt and said if you cross that, I’m gonna take the shovel and kill you. And he was drunk, crossed the line, and my dad at 13 laid him out cold”.
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— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) May 9, 2023
Dwayne further described that the cops came after the incident. And told his grandmother that when the boyfriend gets up, either he will kill his dad or his dad will kill him. So The Rock’s grandmother told his dad to get out, as one of them had to go.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson on how his father trained him to be a professional wrestler
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is a third-generation professional wrestler after his father and grandfather. Prior to him, his father, Rocky Johnson, and his grandfather, “Hight Chief” Peter Maivia were also in the wrestling business. The Rock expressed his love for wrestling saying he always wanted to go into the family business. However, he also admitted that wrestling was not as big as back then, so his dad hated the idea.
Nonetheless, even after his dad’s disapproval, Rock wanted to be trained by his father. After that, the father-son got into a huge argument. Eventually, Dwayne told his dad that he would go to someone else if he didn’t train him. After the argument, Rocky finally agreed to train his son. The Great One also recalled falling in love with wrestling as soon as he locked up for training. He then admitted, “Wrestling did save my life”.
In 2008, Rocky Johnson was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, and Dwayne had the honor of inducting his father. Tragically, Rocky Johnson passed away on January 15, 2020, at the age of 75. Dwayne continues to honor his father’s legacy. And has spoken openly about the impact Rocky had on his career and personal growth.
