The Rock Saw ‘Light At The End’ Of WWE Tunnel With ‘The Scorpion King’

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson needs no introduction when it comes to the pro wrestling world, as he is still regarded as one of the all-time greats. He is also a dominant force in Hollywood and brings huge star power to any film he acts in. The Rock saw light at the end of the WWE tunnel with his role in ‘The Scorpion King.’

The Rock’s ascent to WWE popularity and later to movie stardom is something Steve Austin remembers with affection. The Texas Rattlesnake recently told Bill Apter that Johnson’s tenacity to succeed paid off spectacularly. Austin noted that Johnson’s movie career was secured by the 2002 movie “The Scorpion King.” At that time, Dwayne Johnson knew he had future plans outside of pro wrestling.

Who would have figured, but I think that’s what he had his sights set on. He’s third generation pro wrestler and he got into the business because of a passion for the business. And then, also, [he] the saw the light on the other side – or the light at end of the tunnel and that first tunnel was maybe that first ‘Scorpion King’ movie.

He almost tried to fit into Hollywood standards and said, ‘No, no, just let me do this my way.’ The thing I like about The Rock is he goes, ‘Hey, man, I’m not going to just try to mold myself down. I’m just going to be me.’ That’s what he’s done and he’s taken over Hollywood by himself.

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Austin also lauded Johnson for being able to control his on-screen persona in Hollywood. It only took just “one screenshot of him” looking like a movie star. Austin stated that he collaborated with Johnson in the WWE and back then, he could see that a man like him would have the skill, the will, and the capability to succeed.

“I’ve loved our matches together. I’ve always loved working with him. I’m proud of him and I’m happy for all of his success because he’s just killing it and he’s working his ass off.”

The Rock continues to make his mark in Hollywood, and that will not be changing anytime soon. We will have to wait and see how his upcoming movies will fare at the Box Office.

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