College Football and Career Shift

Johnson attended the University of Miami, where he played college football as a defensive lineman. He was a member of the national championship-winning team in 1991. However, his aspirations to continue into the National Football League (NFL) were cut short due to a serious back injury. Unable to pursue a professional career in football, Johnson turned to wrestling as an alternative path.

Beginning of WWE Career

He began his professional wrestling career in Texas under the ring name Flex Kavana. After two successful matches, he quickly caught the attention of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), which signed him in 1996. Within a year, he joined the Nation of Domination, took over as its leader, and began using the moniker "The Rock."

Rise to Wrestling Stardom and Rivalry with Steve Austin

Johnson's rising popularity and charismatic persona earned him a place among WWE's elite. He later joined the Corporation, a prominent wrestling faction, and began a notable rivalry with "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. Known as "The People's Champion," Johnson won the WWF (now WWE) Championship six times and the WWF Tag Team Championship five times. His memorable performances and mic skills significantly contributed to the success of WWE's Attitude Era.

Transition to Film Career

Leveraging his wrestling fame, Johnson transitioned to acting in the early 2000s. He made his film debut with a role in "The Mummy Returns" (2001), which led to a leading role in its spin-off, "The Scorpion King." He continued to build a successful film career with roles in "Be Cool," "The Rundown," "Walking Tall," and "Tooth Fairy" (2010), among others. His versatility and on-screen presence helped him become one of Hollywood's most bankable action stars.