One of the most famous wrestlers and actors of all time, The Rock has become one of the select few names in WWE to break through into the wider pop culture world.
- Real name: Dwayne Johnson
- Date of Birth: 2 May 1972
- Finishing moves: Rock Bottom, The People’s Elbow
The son of Rocky Johnson and the grandson of “High Chief” Peter Maivia, Rock famously made his debut at Survivor Series 1996 as Rocky Maivia. Described as “The blue chipper” by announcer Jim Ross, Maivia was set up for success immediately as a third-generation star. However, despite the fact that he was presented as the smiling babyface, fans rejected Rocky almost from the outset.
After turning heel and joining The Nation of Domination, the future People’s Champion rebranded himself as The Rock. Aligning himself with WWE management, Rock captured his first World Championship at Survivor Series 1998 by emerging the winner of the Deadly Games tournament.
Solidifying himself as one of the top stars in the company, Rock eventually crossed paths with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin in what would go on to be one of the biggest rivalries in The Attitude Era and all of WWE history.
Although the 8-time WWE Champion became more focused on movies at the start of the millennium, The Great One still made sporadic returns in various personas such as the popular heel Hollywood Rock persona and more recently The Final Boss. The Hollywood star also headlined WrestleMania 28 and 29 along with John Cena in what was a torch passing match much like Rock’s match with Hulk Hogan back in 2002.
The Rock made the transition from the squared circle to the big screen in 2002 as he played the titular character in The Scorpion King. From there, The People’s Champion went on to star in live action and voice roles in the Fast and Furious franchise along with other hit movies such as Moana, Baywatch and Jumanji. Additionally, the Hollywood star cameos and served as a producer in the Saraya/Paige biopic Fighting with My Family. In other media, The Rock guest-starred on the Tech N9ne song Face Off.
The Rock WWE Championship Record
- WWE Championship – 8 reigns
- WCW Championship [defended on WWE TV] – 2 reigns
- Intercontinental Championship – 2 reigns
- Tag Team Championship – 5 reigns
- Royal Rumble winner – 2000
Featured image: WWE