Dwayne Johnson is one of the most well-known people in the world today. Much of the credit goes to his days in the WWE, where he became a household name through his portrayal of The Rock. His electrifying presence and witty promos quickly turned him into a fan favorite despite his alignment as a heel at the time when he first dubbed himself ‘The Rock.’ However, with every stride he made in Hollywood, he began using his real name more and more, so much so that several younger fans do not even know of his wrestling origins. This has led many wondering if it is because the WWE owns the trademark on that name.
Also read: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Was Paid $1 MILLION for Every Social Media Post Promoting His Own Movie
The WWE is known for owning the ring names of their performers. Even John Cena, who wrestles under his real name, has stated before that the WWE owns the trademark on John Cena. Is that also the case with Dwayne Johnson and ‘The Rock’ name?
Does Dwayne Johnson Own the Name ‘The Rock’?
The Rock is one of the most influential characters featured on WWE TV. Which is why it is surprising that Vince McMahon doesn’t own the name. During an appearance on The Howard Stern Show back in 2004, Dwayne Johnson made the stunning revelation that he had the rights to his ring name and not the WWE executive.
“I actually own it, I do, yeah,” Dwayne Johnson said. “It was an easy conversation. This is how it went down: I went to him [Vince McMahon], I talked to him and he knew what I wanted to do after wrestling because I’d been able to accomplish a lot. Which has always been great for me… I know he doesn’t [give away anything for free],”
When asked if the WWE could come for the rights to the name, Johnson replied firmly that he did not have to pay anything to anyone to use the name.
“No, no, no. I have my name, I own my own name. And all rights to it… I did not have to pay for it.”
Will The Rock face Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 39?
Dwayne Johnson has not had a wrestling match since his infamous encounter with Erick Rowan at WrestleMania 32. The two had an impromptu match after the Wyatt Family interrupted his appearance at the Grandest Stage of all. Their match lasted all of 6 seconds, ending with a Rock Bottom and a quick three count.
This match also has the dubious record of being the shortest in WrestleMania history.
However, all will be forgiven if he appears at WrestleMania 39 to take on his cousin, Roman Reigns. The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion has been calling himself the Tribal Chief for quite a few years now.
It is surprising that The Rock hasn’t had anything to say about it, but all of that could change if the rumors are to be believed.
Dwayne Johnson is reportedly set to bring back The Rock to WWE and challenge Roman Reigns at the biggest wrestling event of the year.
The rumors have gained even more steam following Cody Rhodes’ entry into the Royal Rumble, with fans believing that Johnson will be the surprise entry now that the American Nightmare is a confirmed participant. Some also believe that he may appear at WWE XXX since the announcement that every generation of the Bloodline will be there.
Regardless of when and how he appears, fans are only hoping that the rumors don’t just stay rumors.
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