Rocky Johnson
Rocky "Soul Man" Johnson, a WWE Hall Of Famer and the father of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has died at the age of 75. Johnson came to prominence in 1982 as a WWE tag-team champion in with, "Mr. USA" Tony Atlas. Before his time in WWE, Johnson traveled the different territories of the NWA (National Wrestling Association) during the 1960's and 1970's.
In the 1970's Johnson was frequently in World title matches with Harley Race and Terry Funk, solidifying him as a main event star. In 1976, Rocky was invited down to Memphis to engage in a feud with Jerry Lawler. Rocky had a background in boxing and was portrayed as a fighter facing Lawler in a boxer versus wrestler match. Memphis promoter, Jerry Jarrett was inspired by the Antonio Inoki vs. Muhammad Ali fight in June of 1976. Johnson would go on to defeat "The King" for the NWA Southern Heavyweight Championship.
Johnson is most famous for being the father of the biggest star in Hollywood and Pro Wrestling, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
Rocky Johnson paved the way for many African Americans to enter pro wrestling. His strength, speed, and skill made him an attraction all across America.
Thank you Mr. Johnson, your contributions will never be forgotten.
Class Dismissed,
THE PROFESSOR
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