The wrestling world mourns the loss of a legend! The news broke on Wednesday and was later confirmed by WWE on Twitter. WWE Hall of Famer Rocky Johnson has passed away at the age of 75.
Born in Nova Scotia, Johnson (born Wayde Douglas Bowles) began his wrestling career in 1964 with the National Wrestling Alliance. He wrestled against the likes of Terry Funk and Harley Race, and always remained in contention for the Heavyweight title. Johnson joined WWF (known as WWE today) in 1982. Some of his earliest feuds came against Don Muraco, Greg Valentine, and Adrian Adonis.
Johnson’s greatest professional achievement took place on November 15, 1983. He and his tag team partner Tony Atlas, known as The Soul Patrol, defeated The Wild Samoans (Afa and Sika) for the Tag Team Championships. With their victory, Johnson and Atlas became the first black tag team to hold the titles.
During his time in the WWF, Johnson met Ata Maivia, daughter of WWE Hall of Famer “High Chief” Peter Maivia, and later married into the legendary Anoa’i family. Rocky and Ata together had their son, Dwayne, in 1972.
Life after Wrestling
When Rocky Johnson retired from the ring in 1991, he did not travel far away from the business. He trained his son with the help of fellow WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson. When Dwayne joined the WWF, Johnson stuck by his son’s side when he made his debut as “Rocky Maivia.” He later watched Dwayne became the icon we know today as “The Rock.” Johnson also worked as a trainer for Ohio Valley Wrestling in early 2003.
Dwayne repaid his father in 2008 when he inducted both Rocky and his grandfather, “High Chief,” into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Belly Up Sports extends its deepest condolences to Johnson’s family and friends.
Rest in Peace, Soul Man!
