Rocky "Soul Man" Johnson, former pro wrestler and father of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, has died at 75
WWE Hall of Famer Rocky "Soul Man" Johnson, father of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, has died at age 75, the WWE announced Wednesday.
Johnson, born Wayde Douglas Bowles, was known for being first African American World Tag Team Champion in WWE history as a member of The Soul Patrol along with Tony Atlas, CBS Los Angeles reported.
He retired in 1991, but continued a lifestyle in the ring while helping train his son, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, according to the WWE.
The Rock went on to continue his father's legacy, becoming one of the biggest stars in the history of sports-entertainment.
Johnson was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2008 by his son.
An outpouring of condolences were posted on social media Wednesday night.
The National Wrestling Alliance is saddened to hear of the passing of Rocky Johnson.
— NWA (@nwa) January 15, 2020
His legacy stretches across every promotion. He was a champion everywhere he went including holding the NWA Georgia Championship.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family. pic.twitter.com/KTqHZns6Hb
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of the great Rocky Johnson. Always a gentleman, I always enjoyed talking with him. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the fans who loved him. A very sad day for wrestling.#RIPRockyJohnson pic.twitter.com/4agKbOzAry
— Mick Foley (@RealMickFoley) January 15, 2020