Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Shares Heartfelt Tribute For Hulk Hogan

Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, July 27th 2025 at 13:38 GMT by The Spun
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The wrestling universe lost a legend this week in Hulk Hogan. He sadly passed away on Thursday in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 71. Hogan was undoubtedly one of, if not the most influential wrestler in the history of the WWE. With that said, countless current and former wrestlers ...

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Shares Heartfelt Tribute to His Late Father, Reflecting on Legacy and Loss

In a deeply emotional post that has resonated with fans around the world, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to his late father, Rocky Johnson, a wrestling legend whose influence continues to shape the superstar's life and career. The message, accompanied by a touching video montage, offers a rare glimpse into Johnson's personal world, blending vulnerability with gratitude as he navigates the complexities of grief, family legacy, and personal growth. This isn't just another celebrity update; it's a poignant reminder of the human side behind one of Hollywood's most larger-than-life figures.

Johnson, known for his blockbuster films like *Jumanji* and *Fast & Furious*, as well as his wrestling roots in WWE, has always been open about his family ties. But this particular tribute stands out for its raw honesty. Posted on Instagram, where Johnson boasts over 200 million followers, the video features archival footage of Rocky Johnson in the ring, interspersed with family photos and moments from Dwayne's own life. The caption, written in Johnson's signature motivational style, delves into the profound impact his father had on him, both as a wrestler and as a man.

"I wish I had one more shot," Johnson writes in the post, echoing the sentiments of many who have lost loved ones. He reflects on the lessons learned from his father, who passed away suddenly in January 2020 at the age of 75. Rocky Johnson, born Wayde Douglas Bowles, was a trailblazer in professional wrestling. As one half of the first Black tag team to win the WWF World Tag Team Championship alongside Tony Atlas, he broke barriers in an industry that was often unwelcoming to athletes of color. His career spanned decades, from the National Wrestling Alliance to the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), where he earned the nickname "Soul Man" for his charisma and athletic prowess.

In the tribute, Johnson doesn't shy away from the complicated aspects of their relationship. He acknowledges the tough love and high expectations that defined his upbringing. "You were hard on me, but you made me who I am," he shares, recounting stories of rigorous training sessions and life lessons imparted in the wrestling ring. These anecdotes paint a picture of a father who instilled discipline and resilience in his son, qualities that propelled Dwayne from a troubled youth—marked by evictions and brushes with the law—to becoming one of the highest-paid actors in the world.

The video montage is particularly moving, showing young Dwayne watching his father perform, then transitioning to Johnson's own wrestling days as "The Rock," where he revolutionized the sport with his electrifying promos and in-ring charisma. Fans of wrestling history will appreciate the nods to Rocky's pioneering role; he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2008, an honor that Johnson helped facilitate. In his post, Johnson expresses regret for not having more time to say goodbye, a universal theme that has struck a chord with followers. Comments flooded in from celebrities and fans alike, with messages of support from the likes of Kevin Hart, John Cena, and even non-wrestling stars like Ryan Reynolds, who praised Johnson's openness.

This tribute comes at a time when Johnson is busier than ever. With upcoming projects including the DC Comics film *Black Adam*, where he plays the anti-hero, and his ongoing work with his production company Seven Bucks Productions, Johnson's schedule is packed. Yet, he makes time for these personal reflections, often using his platform to discuss mental health, family, and perseverance. In recent years, he's been vocal about his own struggles with depression, tying back to the loss of his father and other personal challenges. This post serves as an extension of that narrative, encouraging others to cherish their relationships and express love while they can.

Delving deeper into Rocky Johnson's legacy, it's impossible to overstate his contributions to wrestling. Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1944, he began his career in the 1960s, wrestling under various promotions and facing racial prejudices head-on. His partnership with Tony Atlas as "The Soul Patrol" was groundbreaking, capturing the tag team titles in 1983 and paving the way for future Black wrestlers like Booker T and, of course, his own son. Johnson often credits his father's trailblazing path for opening doors in an industry that might otherwise have remained closed to him.

In the tribute, Johnson shares a specific memory that highlights their bond: a time when Rocky taught him the value of hard work by making him clean the wrestling mats after practice. "You didn't let me take shortcuts," he writes. This ethos has become a cornerstone of Johnson's brand, evident in his motivational speeches, his Teremana Tequila business, and even his political aspirations—rumors persist that he might run for office someday. The post also touches on how Rocky's death affected the family, including Johnson's mother, Ata, and his daughters. He mentions how he's passing on these lessons to his own children, ensuring the legacy continues.

The emotional weight of the tribute is amplified by Johnson's choice of music in the video—a soulful track that underscores the themes of loss and remembrance. Fans have responded by sharing their own stories of parental loss, turning the comments section into a virtual support group. This interaction exemplifies Johnson's unique ability to connect with his audience on a personal level, beyond the glitz of Hollywood.

Looking back at Johnson's career trajectory, it's clear how intertwined it is with his father's influence. After a brief stint in football, including time with the Calgary Stampeders in the CFL, Johnson turned to wrestling, debuting in WWE in 1996 as Rocky Maivia—a nod to both his father and grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia. The evolution to "The Rock" marked his breakout, leading to Hollywood success. Films like *The Scorpion King* and *Moana* showcased his versatility, but he never forgets his roots. In interviews, he's spoken about the pressure of living up to his father's name, and this tribute feels like a cathartic release.

Moreover, the post aligns with broader cultural conversations about grief in the public eye. Celebrities like Johnson are increasingly using social media to humanize themselves, breaking down the facade of invincibility. In a world where mental health awareness is gaining traction, his willingness to share vulnerabilities sets a powerful example. It's not just about mourning; it's about celebrating life and the enduring impact of those who've shaped us.

As the tribute concludes, Johnson ends on an uplifting note: "I hear you, Dad. And I'm carrying the torch." This promise resonates deeply, suggesting that while Rocky Johnson may be gone, his spirit lives on through his son's achievements and the values he imparts. For fans, it's a reminder that even icons like The Rock grapple with the same heartaches as everyone else.

In an era of fleeting social media trends, this heartfelt message stands out for its authenticity and depth. It invites reflection on our own family ties and the legacies we inherit. Dwayne Johnson, ever the people's champion, continues to inspire not just through his on-screen heroics, but through these genuine moments of humanity. As he moves forward in his multifaceted career, one thing is certain: the bond with his father remains an unbreakable foundation.

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