Challenges in the Life of Dwayne Johnson in a Detailed Timeline

Life is full of challenges, and Dwayne Johnson faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is an American actor and professional wrestler, widely considered one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. He rose to prominence in the WWF (now WWE) during the Attitude Era before transitioning to a highly successful acting career. His films have grossed billions worldwide, making him one of the highest-grossing and highest-paid actors. Beyond acting and wrestling, Johnson is a co-owner of the United Football League, a board member of TKO Group Holdings (parent of UFC and WWE), and co-founder of Seven Bucks Productions, demonstrating his diverse entrepreneurial ventures.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1995: Signed by the Calgary Stampeders

In 1995, Dwayne Johnson was signed by the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League but was cut two months into the season.

1995: Undrafted by NFL and Signed with Calgary Stampeders

In 1995, despite aspirations to play professional football, Johnson went undrafted in the NFL draft. He briefly signed with the Calgary Stampeders but was cut during his first season.

January 4, 1999: Lost the WWF Championship to Mankind

On January 4, 1999, on Raw Is War, Mankind defeated The Rock for the WWF Championship after interference from Stone Cold Steve Austin.

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January 20, 2002: Undisputed WWF Championship Challenge

On January 20, 2002, at Royal Rumble, The Rock unsuccessfully challenged Chris Jericho for the now Undisputed WWF Championship.

2018: Fan Support Dips

In 2018, Sean Coyle of ESPN.com noted that after The Rock's victory over Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8, The Rock "started to see a dip in fan support" and "that dip turned into a plunge" by the time The Rock had his match with Lesnar at SummerSlam because fans knew he was leaving WWE to pursue an acting career, as evidenced by the negative crowd response during his match with Lesnar.