A Glimpse into Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's Roots - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

A Glimpse into Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s Roots

3 mins read
wwe hollywood

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s wrestling heritage comes from his father, Rocky Johnson, a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler who embodied resilience and grit. However, his legacy is tinged with hardship and sorrow, including struggles with declining health before his passing in 2020. Despite this, his legacy lives on through his son, who was molded into a stalwart and influential figure by his father’s struggles.

What is Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s wrestling heritage?

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s wrestling heritage comes from his father, the Canadian professional wrestler Wade ‘Rocky’ Johnson. Rocky was not only a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler but also embodied the principles of resilience and grit. However, his legacy is tinged with hardship and sorrow, including his struggles with his declining health before his passing in 2020. Despite this, his legacy lives on through his son, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

Hollywood’s Titan and His Wrestling Heritage

In the dazzling realm of Hollywood, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has carved out a spot as the reigning champion. His journey to stardom was not always smooth, with a history marked by challenges and perseverance, originating from his robust and relentless WWE background. His recent disclosure on Trevor Noah’s show, What Now?, offers a haunting depiction of his father’s history, revealing the extraordinary tenacity that has shaped Johnson’s own path.

Dwayne Johnson, now a formidable figure in the film industry, initially rose to prominence in the wrestling ring. His father, the Canadian professional wrestler Wade ‘Rocky’ Johnson, was more than a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler; he embodied the principles of resilience and grit. However, his legacy is tinged with hardship and sorrow, as Johnson movingly shared with Trevor Noah, the comedian and TV show host of South African descent.

Rocky’s Struggles and Perseverance

Rocky’s life took a tragic turn upon the death of his father when he was merely 13 years old. The festive season, a time of joy and celebration for most, was a somber period for young Rocky. The introduction of a new figure, his mother’s boyfriend, signified the start of a life-changing era. Johnson narrates a gripping story of his father, brandishing a shovel, standing his ground against the intoxicated boyfriend who ruined their festive dinner. This confrontation, which demonstrated Rocky’s bravery, culminated in the boyfriend falling unconscious and the police arriving at their home.

The ensuing incidents were even more harrowing. Compelled to choose between her new partner and her son, Rocky’s mother chose the former. This harsh rejection led Rocky to live on the streets, cast adrift in a merciless world at the tender age of thirteen.

Johnson’s emotive recounting of his father’s past is a testament not merely to Rocky’s struggles, but also to the indomitable spirit that he passed onto his son. His journey, however, came to an abrupt halt on 15 January 2020, when he succumbed to a long battle with ill health at the age of 75.

Rocky’s Final Days and Legacy

The period leading up to Rocky’s demise was narrated by Brian Blair, a former professional wrestler and a close family friend. In a discussion with the Florida Times-Union, Blair revealed Rocky’s denial of his declining health, dismissing it as a mere flu. Despite Blair’s urging for medical attention, Rocky was unyielding in his conviction of self-healing. His absence from the Sunday church service, however, signaled a concerning deviation from his usual routine, pointing to his deteriorating health. Sadly, Rocky’s strong spirit could not save him from his failing health.

Johnson’s heartfelt tribute to his father discloses a facet of him that is as resilient as the characters he portrays on screen. It is clear that his WWE heritage and his father’s struggles have molded him into the stalwart and influential figure he is now. His father’s story serves as a stark reminder of the obstacles one can surmount, and how, against all odds, the determination to fight can lead to remarkable achievements. This is the legacy of Rocky Johnson, a legacy that continues to be upheld and enriched by his son, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

1. What is Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s wrestling heritage?

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s wrestling heritage comes from his father, the Canadian professional wrestler Wade ‘Rocky’ Johnson. Rocky was not only a WWE Hall of Fame wrestler but also embodied the principles of resilience and grit. However, his legacy is tinged with hardship and sorrow, including his struggles with his declining health before his passing in 2020. Despite this, his legacy lives on through his son, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

2. How did Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson rise to prominence?

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson initially rose to prominence in the wrestling ring. He later transitioned to the film industry and has become a formidable figure in Hollywood.

3. What challenges did Rocky Johnson face in his life?

Rocky Johnson faced numerous challenges throughout his life, including the death of his father when he was just 13, living on the streets at a young age, and struggling with declining health before his passing in 2020.

4. What was the confrontation that Rocky Johnson had with his mother’s boyfriend?

Rocky Johnson confronted his mother’s boyfriend during a festive dinner after he had become intoxicated and ruined the occasion. The confrontation escalated, with Rocky defending himself and his family with a shovel, and resulting in the boyfriend falling unconscious and the police arriving at their home.

5. What was Rocky Johnson’s final illness?

Rocky Johnson’s final illness was a battle with declining health that he initially dismissed as a mere flu. He eventually succumbed to his illness on January 15, 2020, at the age of 75.

6. What is the legacy of Rocky Johnson?

Rocky Johnson’s legacy is one of resilience and grit, demonstrated through his wrestling career and his ability to overcome numerous challenges in his life. His legacy continues to be upheld and enriched by his son, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

Previous Story

Google Maps’ Innovative Approach: A Leap in Travel Safety in South Africa

Next Story

The Self-Made Storm of Elton Jantjies: A Cautionary Tale

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.