WWE legend Rocky Johnson, father of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, dies at 75
Rocky Johnson, father of Dwayne Johnson has passed away. He was 75 at the time of death. The news was confirmed by World Wrestling Entertainment in a statement that read, "WWE is saddened to learn that Rocky “Soul Man” Johnson (born Wayde Douglas Bowles), a WWE Hall of Famer, former World Tag Team Champion, and father of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, has passed away at age 75.”
Sports journalist and editor of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Dave Meltzer also took to Twitter to pay his respects. "What horrible news, Rocky Johnson passed away, Dwayne's father. Our best to Dwayne, Ricky, Ata, and the entire family," he wrote.
Johnson began wrestling in 1964, working his way to the top in the territorial wrestling days and challenging for the NWA worlds heavyweight championship multiple times, coming up short against Jack Brisco, Terry Funk and Harley Race. Johnson also held the NWA television championship on two separate occasions. Over the years, he made a name for himself in the wrestling industry by winning several titles.
However, he decided to retire from wrestling in 1991. He was still connected to wrestling through Dwayne, who he went on to train. Even though Johnson was initially hesitant about letting Dwayne enter wrestling, he later changed his mind and agreed to train him on the condition that he would not be going easy on him.
Johnson even accompanied Dwayne on several fights but soon took a backseat to let Dwayne showcase his magic. The Rock went on to become a massive Hollywood star and was the man to induct his father into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2008.
Many people took to social media to express their sadness on his death. "Damn, sorry to hear about the passing of “Soul Man” Rocky Johnson. A legend in his own right and without him we would have never had @TheRock. Condolences and thoughts go out to The Rock and his entire family. RIP," one fan wrote.
Another added, "RIP to the Soul Man Rocky Johnson! Thank u for everything u did for the wrestling business and thank u for raising your son @TheRock the right way and making him a respectful and kind person! #riprockyjohnson."
Johnson is survived by his sons, Dwayne and Curtis, and his daughter, Wanda. The cause of his death is currently unknown.