December 4, 2018 ▸ History, People

Episode 349: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: The People’s Champ!

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On this episode of the world famous Sofa King Podcast, know our role, shut our mouths, and smell what our topic is cookin. Our topic? Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The Rock is currently the highest paid actor in Hollywood, with a series of movies that have grossed a total of $8.1 Billion! But, he started from humble, if not auspicious beginnings.

Dwayne Johnson was the son of professional wrestler Rocky Johnson and grandson of the legendary Peter “High Chief” Fanene Maivia. He grew up moving from state to state following his father’s career in the ring, back when wrestling didn’t pay much. They had financial hardships, and at points, Johnson’s mother was suicidal, but they made it through

Not interested in the family business, but a very gifted athlete, he started a career in football that saw him set records at the state level, move to college ball, and eventually start in the CFL as a professional baller. After some injuries, however, he called it quits and decided to hit up Vince McMahon and start wrestling.

This decision change the face of popular culture. Within a few short years, Johnson went from a character called Flex Kavana to an upstart and charismatic guy known as Rocky Maivia. As “The Rock,” he dominated the WWF. He had epic rivals with Stone Cold Steve Austin, teamed up with the legendary Hulk Hogan, and became a tag team partner to Mick Foley during what is now known as “The Attitude Era.” He won the WWF/WWE championship a whopping 17 times, showing that he had the heat to stay on top.

Eventually, he started getting small acting roles in action films, and that blossomed into an industry of The Rock being on top of that game as well. From his role as the Scorpion King to his box office dominance in the Fast and Furious movies, he built a movie personal like no others. He does comedy with the likes of Kevin Hart, stars as a shell shocked super star in Southland Tales, and even voices Maui in Disney’s Moana.

From bestselling author to Guinness World Record Holder, The Rock is one the most important people in all of entertainment. Even if you don’t like professional wrestling, the story of The Rock’s success is pretty epic, so give this one a listen and learn the tale of The Brahma Bull, the People’s Champion, The Great One, and the Most Electrifying Man in Entertainment.

Best Of:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUjla7U4Lv4

Crazy thorough timeline: http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/bios/r/the-rock/

Kevin Hart Baby Photo: https://wjla.com/news/entertainment/someone-photo-shopped-kevin-harts-face-on-the-picture-of-the-rocks-new-baby-daughter

The Rock Concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHC2o3E2HcI