SUMMARY
- In an interview, Dwayne Johnson disclosed that he is the sole proprietor of his WWE ring name, The Rock.
- Dwayne Johnson has recently joined the board of directors at TKO Group Holdings.
Dwayne Johnson, a globally renowned figure, has not only conquered the wrestling world with his success in WWE but has also left an indelible mark in Hollywood. While also recognized by his real name, most individuals know him better by his WWE ring name, The Rock. It’s a moniker that Johnson himself owns.
In an interview on The Howard Stern Show back in 2004, Dwayne Johnson disclosed that he is the sole proprietor of his WWE ring name, The Rock. A claim that sets him apart from most WWE stars. Contrary to the norm, Vince McMahon or the Stamford-based promotion typically retains ownership of the wrestlers’ ring names.
Dwayne asserted, “I actually own it. I have always been billed as The Rock. But over time, especially this past year, it’s been a media thing. Like they have been writing and putting out there Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.” Johnson further clarified, “I own the name, The Rock. I have my name, I own my name. I did not have to pay for it”.
This revelation showcases him as the only wrestler who possesses the rights to his ring name. Johnson’s case highlights a special arrangement. This might be likely owing to his immense popularity and the cultural impact of his wrestling persona, The Rock.
This ownership of his WWE name adds another layer to Dwayne Johnson’s legacy, solidifying his place not just as a legendary wrestler and actor but also as a savvy entrepreneur in the realm of professional wrestling.
Dwayne Johnson joins TKO group’s board, gains full control of ‘The Rock’ trademark
Dwayne Johnson, the celebrated actor and former professional wrestler, has recently joined the board of directors at TKO Group Holdings, Inc., overseeing the merger of WWE and the UFC. Ariel Emanuel, CEO of TKO, expressed excitement about Johnson’s involvement, emphasizing his talent for building globally recognized brands.
The Rock ringing the bell for the Stock Exchange this morning along with Vince, Triple H, Ari Emanuel and TKO pic.twitter.com/rd6aXlgir7
— CrispyWrestling (@CrispyWrestlin) January 23, 2024
The specific terms of Johnson’s deal remain undisclosed. But WWE has entered into a services and merchandising agreement with him, granting him ownership of the trademarked name ‘The Rock’. This development aligns with speculation about Johnson’s potential return to the Stamford-based promotion for a match against his cousin, Roman Reigns, the current WWE Universal Champion.
In a statement, Johnson conveyed his humility and familial connection, stating, “My grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia, and my dad, Rocky ‘Soulman’ Johnson, would’ve never thought this day would come.” He expressed motivation to contribute to the global expansion of TKO, WWE, and UFC, aiming to maintain their leadership in sports and entertainment.
Vince McMahon, executive chairman of the TKO board, commended Johnson’s understanding of the convergence of sports, entertainment, media, and business, stating, “Very few people on the planet understand the convergence of sports, entertainment, media, and business like Rock.”
Dwayne Johnson revealed the softer side of Ari Emanuel while discussing what it means for him to become the owner of “The Rock” name. pic.twitter.com/ujr3jrvhcR
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 23, 2024
Johnson has longstanding relationships in the TKO organization, including McMahon and WWE president Nick Khan, which adds a personal dimension to his involvement. Johnson’s ties with Khan extend to childhood. He collaborated with Khan’s sister, Nahnatchka Khan.
They collaborated on the development of the NBC series ‘Young Rock’. Ariel Emanuel, a leader in Johnson’s team at WME, completes the network of professional relationships that The Rock brings to the TKO board.