SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)...
Rocky Johnson, a longtime NWA territory and later WWF wrestler, died today at age 75, according to Cauliflower Alley Club. He held many regional singles and many tag teams titles during his career spanning more than 20 years, including the WWF Tag Team Titles with Tony Atlas in the mid-1980s during the WWF’s national syndication expansion period. He is also the father of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
His autobiography was just released this year, titled “Soulman: The Rocs Johnson Story.”
He wrote that there is a lot he missed about being a pro wrestler, and a lot he didn’t miss. “If I had to do it all over again, I would definitely follow the same path,” he wrote. “I loved what I did for the 22 years I was active in the ring and the 15 years that followed as a trainer. I always had a place to go when I was working. I wasn’t always on top, but promoters always found a spot for me, and they paid me well.”
He wrote that the first 100 times people recognized as him “Rock’s dad” instead of “Rocky Johnson, the wrestler,” it bothered him. After that, he embraced it. He said at first it felt like he was being forgotten, but now “I’m good with it – I’m proud to be known as ‘The Rock’s dad.'”
Horrible news to pass along. We just learned that Rocky Johnson passed away today at the age of 75. His accolades in this business, all the people he influenced, all his accomplishments, and we are so deeply sorry and wish his family nothing but the most love at this time pic.twitter.com/3AvzVwylPH
— CauliflowerAlleyClub (@CACReunion) January 15, 2020
Wrestlers are commenting on the death of Rocky Johnson.
Saddened to hear about the passing of Rocky Johnson. Rocky was always extremely friendly & kind to me every time I interacted with him over the years. My condolences & thoughts go out to his family.
— Matt Hardy in LIMBO (@MATTHARDYBRAND) January 15, 2020
R.I.P. to the legendary Rocky Johnson. Truly a pioneer and inspiration.
— Scorpio Sky (@ScorpioSky) January 15, 2020
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of the great Rocky Johnson. Always a gentleman, I always enjoyed talking with him. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the fans who loved him. A very sad day for wrestling.#RIPRockyJohnson pic.twitter.com/4agKbOzAry
— Mick Foley (@RealMickFoley) January 15, 2020
So sad to hear that my friend Rocky Johnson has passed away. He was an amazing man who I admired greatly! God Bless you Rocky until we see each other in heaven!! Prayers going out to Dwayne @TheRock Johnson and his family. You’re in my thoughts always! Much love!
— Brutus Beefcake (@brutusbeefcake_) January 15, 2020
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.