Dwayne Johnson Reminisces About His Debut Days After “Incredible” Rare Photo Resurfaces Online

Dwayne Johnson made WWE history, from humble beginnings as Rocky Maivia to becoming The People's Champion. A fan found a rare image from his early dark matches, sending Johnson on a trip down memory lane.

The Rock’s Dark Days

Dark matches are held to pump up the atmosphere, test rising stars, and are not aired on TV. However, a fan shared a video invoking nostalgia in Johnson, to which Dwayne replied: "My second match ever, 24 hours after my first. God bless Chris Candido."

From Football to Wrestling

Johnson briefly pursued American football but chose wrestling, following his family tradition. He began training with his father and had tryout matches in 1996 for the WWF (now WWE), including bouts with Chris Candido, the Brooklyn Brawler, and Owen Hart. He earned a development contract and joined Jerry Lawler's USWA.
Yet, the initial days in the ring were far from glamorous.

Trying to Embrace the Light

The Rock overcame early setbacks, became a WWE legend in 2000, held multiple titles, and made a record-breaking return to wrestling. Dwayne Johnson's WWE journey from rookie to The Rock is iconic, marked by charisma and skill.

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