‘To be subversive in any way…’: When Dwayne Johnson recalled that he wanted to be known by his real name ‘so he could have a real career in Hollywood’

Dwayne Johnson, a prominent figure in the world of Hollywood, has directed many successful films. Despite his remarkable Hollywood career, fans have always appreciated the image he portrayed of The Rock in WWE. He started his journey as WWE wrestler and quickly rose to television superstar status. Aside from his impressive physique and quirky demeanor, people have consistently admired his ability on the microphone, especially during verbal matches with other wrestlers.

However, his popularity and dedication in the ring eventually led him to Hollywood, where he quickly gained recognition as one of the greatest actors of all time. However, there was a time when Dwayne Johnson expressed a desire to be addressed by his real name rather than his ring image. Here’s the full story.

Dwayne Johnson’s views on his Hollywood career

Despite having a successful career in various popular films, people always preferred to call him by his wrestling name ‘The Rock’. In an interview in 2019 Digital SpyDwayne Johnson spoke about his journey to Hollywood, challenges and achievements. During the interview, he shared his perspective on his name, stating, “When I came to the realization that I was striving to have a legitimate career in Hollywood and hopefully achieve long-term success, I felt a desire to be recognized by my real name, Dwayne Johnson. I also knew that this transition would require patience and time.

Dwayne Johnson’s opinion on his ring name

Dwayne Johnson began his Hollywood career with the cult film The Mummy Returns in 2001. During this period, he was at the peak of his wrestling career and retained the nickname “The Rock” despite moving into acting. He subsequently appeared in other films, but he continued to be called Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

On this issue, he expressed his measured approach, stating: “I did not feel any urgency in the sudden transition and understood that it would take time. I didn’t want the transition to disrupt anything and refrained from making any dramatic statements, such as announcing that from now on I would only use the name “Dwayne Johnson” and that the word “The Rock” should no longer be used for designating me. I never had any intention of doing this.”

In short, he never argued with people calling him “The Rock” or Dwayne Johnson. He has constantly expressed gratitude for his wrestling career, acknowledging WWE for the level of fame and recognition it provided him as The Rock.