Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, known for his wrestling and acting career, discussed the possibility of entering the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) during a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast. In 1997, he contemplated leaving the wrestling world to pursue a potentially more lucrative career in Japan’s Pride Fighting Championship.
During the podcast, Johnson revealed that the allure of MMA and the financial rewards associated with it led him to consider a transition from professional wrestling to competing in Pride. He mentioned being motivated by the significant pay disparities between wrestling and MMA, with Pride fighters reportedly earning significantly more.
He reflected on the idea of training in martial arts, participating in Pride, and potentially finding success in a different arena. He spoke with fellow wrestlers, including Ken Shamrock, and expressed his interest in exploring this new career path.
While it is intriguing to imagine The Rock competing alongside MMA legends like Fedor Emelianenko, Mirko Cro Cop, and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in Pride, some have questioned the accuracy of Johnson’s recollection. MMA historian Jonathan Snowden noted that Pride had only held one event in 1997, suggesting that the timeline Johnson presented may not align with historical events.
Shamrock himself acknowledged that financial considerations played a significant role in his decision to join the then-WWF wrestling organization, as the MMA landscape posed financial challenges during that time. This sheds light on the complexities of career decisions in the worlds of wrestling and MMA during the late 1990s.
Additionally, Johnson’s shift from his initial “smiley babyface” character to a villainous persona in the Nation of Domination in late 1997 further complicates the narrative. This transformation marked a pivotal moment in his wrestling career.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding Johnson’s accounts, it is evident that his interest in MMA extended beyond mere contemplation. In a 2016 interview, he disclosed considering a career in the UFC after leaving WWE in 2004, highlighting his enduring curiosity about the world of MMA.
Beyond his personal aspirations, Johnson has also demonstrated support for the MMA community, symbolized by his involvement in UFC events and charitable gestures towards UFC athletes.
