Last updated on: October 16, 2024
Rocky Johnson was a professional wrestler. Not only was he a great wrestler but also the father of the world-famous actor and wrestling legend, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Let’s know more about who he is and what he’s all about.
| Quick Facts About Rocky Johnson | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Wayde Douglas Bowles |
| Birthdate | August 24, 1944 |
| Occupation | Professional Wrestler |
| Husband/Wife | Dana Martin (m. 2004–2020), Ata Johnson (m. 1978–2003), Una Johnson (m. 1966–1978) |
| Education | Wrestling training |
| Age at Death | 75 years (died at January 15, 2020) |
| Parents | James Henry Bowles, Lillian Bowles |
| Height | 1.88 m |
| Children | Dwayne Johnson, Curtis Bowles, Wanda Bowles |
| Net Worth | Approximately $500,000 at the time of his death |
| Notable Achievements | First African American Tag Team Champion in WWF |
| Tag Team Partner | Tony Atlas |
| Wrestling Debut | 1960s |
| Famous Wrestling Style | Combination of strength and agility |
| Retirement Year | Early 1990s |
Early Life
Rocky Johnson was born on August 24, 1944. He was born in Amherst, Nova Scotia, Canada. His real name was Wayde Douglas Bowles. Born in a mixed race family, he had African and Native Canadian ancestry. This led to his life and career. From an early age, he possessed amazing athletic ability. He played numerous sports, and he got a lot of enjoyment from competitions.
Rocky moved to the United States when he was a teenager. He settled in Toronto, Ontario. There, he pursued his passion for wrestling. He continued training there, learnt the skills that would make him succeed in the ring.
Wrestling Career
Rocky Johnson started wrestling in the 1960s. Rocky Johnson worked for all the major and minor wrestling promotions. Rocky Johnson became a Star due to his skills and charm. The Wrestlers were also known because of their strength and showmanship, like Rocky. He was a fan favourite.
In 1983, he made history. He was one of the first African Americans to ever win the tag team championship in the WWF (World Wrestling Federation). He shared it with his partner, Tony Atlas. This was a big deal in the wrestling world. The doors this opened for many wrestlers of color are numerous. This is an achievement in which Rocky takes much pride. He showed the world that anyone could succeed, if one worked hard and was dedicated enough.
During his career, Rocky encountered very stern opponents. He traveled across the whole country, entertaining people anywhere. What made Rocky exciting was his style in the ring. He mixed the power move with agility. He could jump so high and do great stunts. Such matches were very entertaining.
Family Life
Meanwhile, Rocky was building a family in the ring. He married Ata Johnson and had one son: Dwayne Johnson. Dwayne would go on to be a huge star in wrestling and Hollywood. Rocky brought Dwayne up to have strong values. He taught him about hard work and perseverance.
He also had a half-brother and sister. His name is Curtis Bowles Johnson and her name is Wanda Bowles Johnson. Family was something that mattered to Rocky. He always found time for them even though he had so much stuff to do.
Rocky separated from Ata in 2001. Even after they separated, he still was such a loving father to Dwayne. He encouraged his son to pursue his dreams.
READ ALSO: Dwayne Johnson Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Dwayne Johnson’s Rise to Fame
Dwayne Johnson followed in his father’s footsteps. He became a wrestler, and took on the name “The Rock.” Dwayne became instant paralinguistic fame in the WWF. He was one of wrestling’s largest stars in history. His charisma and catchphrases captivated fans.
Dwayne often talks about the influence of his dad. Dwayne gives much credit to Rocky for teaching him something crucial: nothing in life is free, and therefore hard work does indeed pay off. Dwayne has stated a good portion of what drives him today is the legacy of his father. It was the exploits of Rocky that motivated Dwayne to pursue his dreams.
Today, Dwayne Johnson is both a wrestler as well as an actor and producer. He appeared in many successful films and never fails to serve his fans. Dwayne often talks about his father in many interviews. He lives through the memory of Rocky.
Legacy
This is a huge loss to the world of wrestling and his family as well. Rocky Johnson left for another world on 15 January 2020. His fans will not forget him in terms of talent and contribution to the sport. Many future wrestlers were opened roads with talent by this giant. A wrestler like this can never be forgotten for being lost.
The legacy of Rocky lives on through his son, Dwayne Johnson. Dwayne takes the lessons and values that his father brought home with him. He continues to make Rocky proud through his acts.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com
