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WWE Legend Reveals His Honest Thoughts About Seeing The Rock Win His First World Title in 1998

Published November 23, 2023, 12:12 PM EST

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WWE legend and the voice of the Attitude Era, Jim Ross spoke about the 1998 Survivor Series and how it led to the birth of one of wrestling’s biggest stars. In the podcast uploaded on November 9th on the YouTube channel Grilling Jr., host Conrad Thompson took the views of legendary WWE Commentator Jim Ross on The Rock.

In the podcast, Jim Ross praised The Rock for his successful career and explained the moment that has been etched in history now. He also narrated his views on The People’s Champion’s first World Title win and what he felt about The Rock in 1998.

Jim Ross finds The Rock’s win to be controversial

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While explaining the controversial win of The Rock, he said “How he won the title was controversial, but it was very entertaining. That kind of fit him, he’s controversial and he’s very damn entertaining.” The win was reminiscent of the infamous Montreal Screwjob, a year earlier on Bret Hart that also involved Vince McMahon.

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At Survivor Series 1998 The Rock defeated Mankind aka Mick Foley to become the WWE Champion. After delivering a sharp-shooter to Mankind, WWE boss Vince McMahon asked the ring official to ring the bell signaling the end of the match.

Officially, The Rock won the match through submission but Mankind never submitted. It created another controversial ending featuring the evil boss, Vince McMahon. Although The Rock was already playing a heel back then his association with Vinnie Mac elevated him further as a heel. Interestingly, Jim Ross was the commentator for the match.

The legendary commentator praised The Rock’s success over the years and commented upon his stature in 1998. He said, “I didn’t think it was too early. It was a little surprising and I think wrestling fans like surprises.” He further said, “So, uh, yeah, I thought Rock was ready. I think his resume and his track record prove that statement to be true.

 

The Rock’s success outside of WWE proves that the old JR is right on The Brahma Bull.

The Rock becomes Dwayne Johnson for the World

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Barring his few sporadic comebacks and appearances, The Rock stayed with WWE for a little over 7 years from 1996 to 2003. In the early 2000s, he began his transition into Hollywood and became Dwayne Johnson for the world outside of pro wrestling. Now, he is the owner of $800 million of wealth.

Read more: While Recovering From $60M Loss, Dwayne Johnson’s XFL Sees Bizarre Change as Special Teams Coach Replaces Former Super Bowl Champion

He owns a movie production House called Seven Bucks Production that has produced hits like Baywatch, Jumanji: The Next Level, and F&F: Hobbs and Shaw. He also owns a football league called XFL and various brands like Teremana Tequila and ZOA Energy. The Rock used his wits to build a successful business empire on the back of his WWE fame.

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What do you think about The Rock’s overall career progress? Do you agree with Jim Ross’ view on The Rock?

Watch this story: Dwayne Johnson’s hard earned $800,000,000 fortune plays a “very small role” in real life hero’s “$7 bucks journey”

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Written by:

Himangshu Sinha

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One take at a time

Have you ever tried imitating the gestures and catchphrases of your favorite pro wrestlers? Those people eh? Well, I am those people! Hi, I am Himangshu Sinha, a WWE writer at EssentiallySports who is realizing his dream of writing about his favorite pro wrestlers. As a WWE fan, I acknowledge my Tribal Chief the most. I admire Gunther and LA Knight.
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Edited by:

Sherjeel Malik