Rock gets MAJOR heat; not just the speech..

[kenvin100]

Source PWTorch

A number of people in WWE weren't pleased with how Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson came off this past Saturday night. He did not leave a positive impression on a number of wrestlers at the Hall of Fame banquet.

A number of sources report that Johnson did not hang out with old friends before and after his speech at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. He showed up for the speech, delivered one that offended many in WWE and was believed to be too long, and then left.

Some of his former colleagues are saying that Johnson came across as "aloof" and "totally Hollywood," as if he were "above WWE now," not to mention everyone in WWE as well. One of those people include one-time friend Steve Austin, who was openly displeased and taken aback by Johnson's demeanor.

Here is one wrestler's comments regarding Johnson's Hall of Fame speech: "This wasn't a roast. This was supposed to be a tribute to his dad and grandfather. Instead, he did an hour plus of comedy, running way long, then did a short tribute to his dad and grandfather, then left. It was rude of him."

WWE had plans to control the length of the Hall of Fame speeches, but the induction ceremony ran way over the planned length in large part due to Johnson's drawn out speech. Flair's Hall of Fame speech ran long as well, but everyone was forgiving of that considering that it was his night.

After the event, pretty much everyone backstage shared in their resentment and disappointment on Johnson's conduct at the Hall of Fame. The belief backstage was that Johnson had no reason to treat old friends like discards from a past life.

Johnson's speech went on first because he had to catch a plane immediately to Las Vegas, where they are filming his latest movie, Space Mountain. After he left, two individuals took shots at him during their Hall of Fame speeches. When praising John Cena, Ric Flair made a point to say that Cena, "Will never leave our business for Hollywood." Triple H mentioned, "Rock fans," and then said, "Oops, am I supposed to say Dwayne fans now?"

Suprising to me..well no, Why? Well Vince begged for his return and he did what was asked. Everyone wanted the rock to come back. Cena asked rudely why he doesnt "show the eyebrow" and got it lol. Its not like these inductions had meaning. Yeah it was to pay tribute but both Rocky Johnson and Peter Maivia didnt make huge contributions. So that prolly explains the small speeches.

Im sure steve austin or flair or cena would have done the same if they were in hollywood. Course im not calling the Rock the greatest actor but it's descent.

[The Deejish Invasion]

the problem is the rock has been shunning the business for awhile noe he has no need to be apart of the wwe, and in regards to anyone in this business he probably gained the most out of it, it doesnt matter who you are or what you do you will never be bigger then the business and the rock proves that, he will never be the greatest actor around but he will need this business again someday and maybe it wont be so forgiving

[Sicko]

Wrestlers need to stop making it all about them, it was for use the fans who have not seen The Rock in character for a long time, I thought it was fun and great to see, the crowd sitting up top and in the back seems to enjoy it a lot and I know I did

sounds like a lot of jealousy if you ask me, he was just trying to be entertaining and he was

as for going Hollywood, well I am sure the last thing Rock was thinking was "let me use the WWE to become a movie star"

as for the Rock "will need the WWE again" yeah maybe but you honestly think the WWE would turn The Rock away if he was to finally come back??? NEVER! They would bring him back and make him great Heel with a Hollywood attitude

[kenvin100]

Secondly, Rock isnt physically ready for wrestling..lets remember that back in 04, he has muscles that looked like a pillar..i mean he looks awesome right now. Lean and still in great shape, but for wrestling? If he did a rock bottom or lifting a guy over his shoulders, i think it'll hurt lol

And I doubt he will return even if hollywood rejects him completely. Lets remember that this is a tough business. Sure its fake, but you gotta travel tons. People get injured in this business. It might have been a "great ride" (quote the briscos) for some but ended in misfortune for others...

[nbda1997]

... but he will need this business again someday and maybe it wont be so forgiving

I wouldn't go that far... Unless he suddenly develops a nasty crack addiction and a gambling problem, I'm sure the Rock will always have enough money to get by VERY comfortably.

As far as his conduct is concerned, what did they expect? The WWE has pleaded with him many times over the last couple of years to make appearances and he always told them "no". So, the last resort was to induct his father and grandfather into the HOF so that he would feel "obligated" to show up. Of course he's going to go into business for himself.

And lets be honest - if he's really serious about one day becoming an A-list George Clooney/Matt Damon calibur actor, he's better off distancing himself from pro wrestling. For every Ric Flair tribute show, there are at least 10 Katie Vicks and a Shockmaster to make it the laughing stock of the entertainment industry again.

I personally found the portion of the Rock's speech that made it onto USA very entertaining, but I did feel that he took some unnecessary digs (especially against Cena. I mean, come on; he didn't WRITE The Marine!)

I'm just going to hold onto my memories of The Rock in the late 90's. I'll always remember him that way. Let's face it; Dwayne Johnson really isn't The Rock anymore.

[klunderbunker]

I didn't like the way Rock came off on the show. Like someone said already, it wasn't his night. Rock was one of the greatest of all time as far as entertainment goes, but his time is over. He's a movie star now, not a wrestler. The problem is, if he ever said the word, Vince would welcome him back with open arms. No wonder he could say whatever he wants, no way he can burn his bridges.

[nuttinbtaGthng]

Rocky Johnson and Peter Maivia didn't make any huge contributions? Ahem...o.k. I guess Rocky and Atlas being the first black tag team champions meant nothing. Oh, and I suppose Peter never left a huge legacy for the Samoan wrestling community. Right... that sounds like something to me.

[a7xoff]

*sigh* when I read this report I could only do nothing but reaffirm to myself that Dwayne really could care less about the wrestling industry at this point. What pisses me off the most is that Vince would take him back in a second reguardless of how he acts. Seriously If I was anyone in that locker room, say HHH, I would never want Dwayne to come back, even for a HOF ceromony. It's supposed to be a realitivly serious affair for guys and women being inducted. However sadly for Dwayne's dad and grand dad, they're induction looked like a joke... Ugh Dwayne just pisses me off, no anyone would piss me off if they take something like a HOF ceremony, go in and act like your above even the guys your inducting... It's just pathetic I think...

[Dark Blaze]

Sigh, I knew this would happen...ok I didn't really see anything wrong with the Rock's speech/ portion at all..it was entertaining...and I think that's why WWE wanted him back in the first place...to give the people a bit of the Rock once more...if Rock had just come up there and inducted his dad/ grand father...everyone would still COMPLAIN that he didn't even acknowledge his past in the business...so what do they really want?

It was known that he was already on a tight schedule..so he simply came to do what he had to( imagine if he didn't induct his family). IT just proves that Dwayne Johnson is no longer the Rock, he's an actor now trying to make it in the film industry. I don't feel that any of his comments were harmful(not to me anyway) those were the type of jabs he normally gave to Y2J, Mick Foley etc. when he WAS apart of WWE, I don't think the targeted individuals would take those jokes personally but then again...I don't know...whatever.

This article could simply be the product of hearsay, or jealousy(could be true though)...I won't let it or the current behaviour of Dwayne Johnson influence how I feel and respect the Rock as a character in the late 90's.

[Sicko]

or it could just be die hard Cena fans that want people to believe that Cena is better so bad and is upset that The Rock took a little friendly jab at Cena

Rock history in the WWE is set in stone, it may have been a short run but it was hands down one of the greatest runs ever, during his ERA NO ONE was better NO ONE was more complete, even the new guy today NONE of them, not Cena, not Orton, not Batista NONE of them come close to The Rock, MVP is probably the only guys I see right now that can have the type of impact that the Rock had because he is complete, in the ring and with a mic in his hand, Cena is awesome on the mic but average in the ring, Orton is outstanding in the ring but average on the mic and Batista is actually average in the ring and on the mic but just has the "look"

clearly some of the people that are trying to run with this story are just hardcore Cena fans, at least when Rock got booed and "you suck" chants he did not stand in the ring looking like he was about to start crying LOL, nothing against Cena I actually like him unlike most but he will never be as good as The Rock was SORRY

as for HHH I don't think he ever liked the Rock because he knew The Rock was always a bigger star, I respect HHH was a performer but I am just being honest I don't think he ever liked The Rock, not sure if Rock care about him much either

[sfox10]

The reason that The Rock is taking heat for his humorous speech has only to do with the jealousy of certain superstars. Triple H and Ric Flair made digs at Dwayne Johnson while they were speaking, and really, who else would it be? It seems to me that the backstage controversies and politics in the WWE always seem to revolve around the same group of people: Triple H, HBK, Flair, Batista, Steve Austin, and a few others that are no longer associated with the company.

Flair is perhaps the greatest pro wrestler of all time, but he was also a demanding and controlling prick who held down countless - repeat - countless other wrestlers while he was booking himself to be a 16-time World Champion. He cheated the IRS and needed to stay an active wrestler until he was 60 just to keep a steady paycheck. To him, The Rock is a unappreciative punk who left the industry for greener pastures when he was 30-years-old.


The same goes for Triple H. How many title matches at Wrestlemania does he need to appear in? Think about it. The last time he wasn't wrestling for a World Championship at Mania was X-Seven (exception: Mania 23, and only because he was hurt). He's bigger than the title, yet constantly around it. His last two title reigns were both cheap and only padded his reigns to 11. He's also forced the likes of Booker T, Kurt Angle, and Christian to leave the company with his controlling ways. To him, The Rock is a guy who didn't pay his dues, a ridiculous thought considering Triple H himself has tried and already failed to find a niche in Hollywood (see: Blade Trinity).

What Flair and Triple H choose not to see is that Dwayne Johnson was the ultimate company guy for eight years, and never held back another wrestler for fear that he would lose his spot as a main eventer. Johnson always treated his time in the WWE for what is was - a full time job - and never once refused to lay down and take a pin. If Vince asked him to put over Hurricane Helms, he did it. If Vince asked him to put over Chris Jericho? He did it. Al Snow? He did it. Mick Foley? He did it.

Flair would never put over Foley. He's said so himself. Triple H has beaten Jericho clean on PPV at least five times, and that's not counting any elimination chambers. The Rock gave both of those guys their first - and second - World Title reigns. Against Flair and Triple H, I don't think they have a win between them.

Pro wrestling isn't real, and the problem that guys like Flair and Triple H have is that they treat it like it is real. Instead of spreading the wealth amongst other, hardworking individuals who have gotten over with the live crowd, they hold people back, save for their own buddies (I'm looking at you, Batista). The Rock always treated the industry for what it really is, a business, and did whatever his bosses told him to do.

I for one, have no problem with his speech at the Hall of Fame. It was funny and it played to the crowd perfectly. 10,000 people didn't show up to the Hall of Fame to see The Rock get teary eyed and sentimental. The fans wanted that from Ric Flair, and thats what they got. From The Rock, the fans wanted the very promo he delivered. And in the end, this business is supposed to be about the fans, not backstage politics.

[THE Madcap]

seriously guys, are you telling me that the Rock's speech wasn't a work? Do you really think Santino would walk into the "it doesn't matter what your name is" joke willy-nilly?

Personally I liked The Rock's speech as did the crowd. It personified the man, with his wit and interaction with the audience. His speeches on his dad and grandad although short, were poignant and did their job. Would you have had it any other way? If Dwayne Johnson turned up, without any of the smack talk and charisma we remember, there would probably be 10x many complaints from the IWC. Jeez, they can't ever get it right can they?!

[Slim Pickns]

I think you guys are putting too much stock in this report. No one said anything about the Rock's speech being disrepectful until PWTorch said it was and now there are numerous posts about it. This is completely stupid.

For one look at the quote, notice it doesn't say what superstar found it disrepectful. Maybe thats because this is bogus. It only says Austin was taken back by it, which could mean anything. The Rock was asked back by WWE and this is exactly what they expected. If they wanted a serious induction anyone could have done it so they wouldn't have gone out of their way to get Rock. The only reason Rocky Johnson and Peter Maivia were inducted is so Rock could do an entertaining appearance like this one.

[Mighty NorCal]

Yea, Slim is dead on. Firstly, none of us were there, so its fucking dumb to judge what happened without seeing it. And for reals, act as if they really inducted those two guys for ANY purpose but to get exactly what the rock gave them. getting that was what it was ALL about. I am fairly sure this report is fucking bogus.

[Audioslave]

This is the WWE wanting their favorite cake, then getting it, then deciding they didn't like it.

They've been after him for years just to do SOMETHING with them. They induct his pop and grandfather, then get him back to do a speech.. what does he do? He comes back and gives the fans and the company what they fucking wanted - The Rock. He gets in a couple funny, harmless digs and even gets to put Santino over a little. I don't know what else went down, because I know they edited out a lot.. but they asked for The Rock, they got The Rock and now they're complaining and whining?

The fans wouldn't have accepted Dwayne coming out there all humbled and toned down like he is in regular interviews. They wanted The Rock, they got it and it was pretty entertaining.

The reason most of those are bitter would likely be due to either jealousy and envy (Triple H, Flair, maybe Austin) or due to politics and trying to gain points with the office (ie. win points with Triple H).

The man, by going into Hollywood, enabled WWE to open up their own film division and could very well be helping wrestling's image out a lot more.

As a fan, I'm glad he actually achieved success outside of the ring. He deserves it. He's done so much for the WWE that for them to have heat with him over coming, doing his thing and leaving due to his schedule is just petty and asinine. I would bet he'd be a bit more willing to pop up every now and then or do a program if the product wasn't as intelligence insulting as it tends to be at times. I think the main guy, aside from wanting to legitimize himself, working against a potential return of Rock to do a program is Triple H. The last time Rock came back and helped out the company, the guys he put over or gave a rub to got buried or fed to Trips.

The funny thing is that if Rock were to announce he wanted to come back for a program or two, everyone would be doling out the cock-suckings to get a chance to work with Rock.

[robertgum2007]

nawww, its kuzz after the rock left the buisness he just plain out went soft, got rich went soft, started acting real girly in all his movies, and just punked out big time, ha, like trips, ooops cant call him the rock, for realz whats wit that embrace what made you, sure there was dark parts i bet, trips was on roids, so was vince, they all were, so rock probably doesnt wana have ties wit tha company for that reason

[Y 2 Jake]

So some people were pissed at The Rock for being a bit aloof. Yet the only reason they inducted his father and grandfather is to get him on TV, and use him in advertising. It appears as though WWE got what they wanted. If The Rock doesn't keep in touch with these people then are they really friends anymore? More like acquaintances to me. If you had all of your acquaintances in a room, would you get to speak to them all? I don't think so.

[ATTITUDEERA4EVER]

If the Rock didn't show any of his catchphrases or joke around that much, might not have been a problem with wrestlers but many fans would have complained that he wouldn't even acknowledge him being the Rock and that he was there just to induct his family and not interact with his WWE fans, something he hasn't done for a long, long time.

[xfearbefore]

Rocky Johnson and Peter Maivia didn't make any huge contributions? Ahem...o.k. I guess Rocky and Atlas being the first black tag team champions meant nothing.

It didn't mean anything. At all. Because they weren't the first black tag team champions in wrestling history; the first WWE black champions, yes. But not he first in history. Both were mediocre talents who were stuck together because they had nothing else for them. They held the titles for 6 monthes, did absolutely nothing with them whatsoever, then disappeared into obscurity.

So yeah, Rocky & Atlas being the "first" black tag champs meant all of nothing. Because they weren't the first.

Oh, and I suppose Peter never left a huge legacy for the Samoan wrestling community. Right... that sounds like something to me.

Peter Maiva may of had a "huge" legacy, but what did he accomplish in wrestling? Nothing. At all. No one would remember this guy at all if wasn't for the Rock being his grandson. I bet you don't remember Baron Scicluna? Why not, he left such a huge legacy for Russian wrestlers. Oh yeah, because his grandson isn't famous.

Rocky Johnson & Peter Maiva being inducted into the Hall of Fame is a sham, and the ONLY reason they are being inducted is because of the Rock being in their family. That is literally the ONLY reason they are being inducted; so the Rock could make another WWE appearance.

They didn't contribute jack-shit to wrestling. Hall of Famers? ROFL

As for the Rock's speech, I only caught about 5 minutes of it, but it wasn't too bad from what I saw (which wasn't alot). I enjoyed seeing the eyebrow raised and the "Smell What the Rock is Cooking" catchphrase for the good old nostalgia of it. But I didn't catch the entire speech.

And obviously the Rock feels like he is above wrestling; he never wanted to be a wrestler in the first place.

[donutman]

C'mon now, when did everyone get so sensitive in the wrestling world? Correct me if I'm wrong but that sure looked like "The Rock" last night and not Dwayne Johnson. He was in character, he did it purely for the fans. He wasn't doing anything The Rock wouldn't do. I can see how him showing up and then leaving immediately could rub people the wrong way but what else can he do? I'm sure if he didn't have a movie, he would have stayed and chatted with friends.

Seriously, did people all of a sudden forget what made The Rock so great? His skills on the mic are amazing. The fans loved it and looking at some of the wrestler's faces, they loved it too. Everyone was having a good time. It was classic Rock, something we haven't seen in so long. Just listening to him, you can tell he really enjoyed being The Rock again. Honestly, it sounded like he never even left the biz. The wrestlers should know that us fans are important too and Rock was just doing his bit to please us.

I can't believe people are actually hating on The Rock for choosing Hollywood over Wrestling. He made the better business decision for him financially. People keep saying he shunned Wrestling once he left but that is wrong. In interviews, he always gave props to wrestling saying thats what made him. The Rock is easily the most successful Wrestler turned Actor. Wrestling fans should be embracing the fact that one of their own showed the whole world that these wrestlers are more capable than just dropping elbows.

[itzLEEyuhBITCH]

I wouldn't go that far... Unless he suddenly develops a nasty crack addiction and a gambling problem, I'm sure the Rock will always have enough money to get by VERY comfortably.

As far as his conduct is concerned, what did they expect? The WWE has pleaded with him many times over the last couple of years to make appearances and he always told them "no". So, the last resort was to induct his father and grandfather into the HOF so that he would feel "obligated" to show up. Of course he's going to go into business for himself.

And lets be honest - if he's really serious about one day becoming an A-list George Clooney/Matt Damon calibur actor, he's better off distancing himself from pro wrestling. For every Ric Flair tribute show, there are at least 10 Katie Vicks and a Shockmaster to make it the laughing stock of the entertainment industry again.

I personally found the portion of the Rock's speech that made it onto USA very entertaining, but I did feel that he took some unnecessary digs (especially against Cena. I mean, come on; he didn't WRITE The Marine!)

I'm just going to hold onto my memories of The Rock in the late 90's. I'll always remember him that way. Let's face it; Dwayne Johnson really isn't The Rock anymore.

lol...he did that cuz Cena took some shots at him in an interview with this British magazine or something...

It's stupid as hell. People be mad jealous if this is true. If The Rock doesn't show up, they gon be like "he is shunning the business." Yet, when he did, people say he acts as if "he is above the business", what the hell? It's like a buncha feminine b!tches crying simply cuz the dude supposedly walked away and with one word got the loudest pop in what...the past 4-5 years?

He had to leave cuz he was gonna catch a flight to Vegas to shoot his movie. And at those that hate on Rock for "selling out"...c'mon. You KNOW if HHH or Cena got a legit Hollywood deal it is very unlikely they would turn it down. I would wanna make more money without the risk of getting injured as well, stop hating on Rock for wanting a better life for himself, seriously.

Oh btw...I don't recall him shunning wrestling, ever. He's always been giving props to wrestling when the interviewers bring it up...he wants to be known by HIS name, not the name he was known for being a wrestler, whats so wrong with that? SMH @ people who say "oooh he wants to be known as Dwayne cuz he thinks Rock isn't good enough" ....fucc outta here.

[justinsayne]

You know one of the reasons they may be upset is that they figured the Rock would get there, hear the people chanting his name and shit, and he'd catch the wrestling bug again and want to come back and that didn't happen, he came out did the job he was asked to do and then left when his job was done, the Rock is one of the few wrestlers who's manged to make a huge name for himself in wrestling and then turn that into a successful acting career outside of wrestling, you could argue that not even Hogan was able to do that

I think everyone just needs to take a step book and remember that from the time he made his speech at the HOF till the time that report first came out they were all happy and entertained with the Rocks promo, but now that some jackass releases some stupid bullshit report everyone goes and jumps all over the Rock and says he turned his back on the business, tell you the truth right now it looks more like the business is turning their backs on the Rock, cause I can't really see the guy ever coming back to do something for the company if this is the thanks he's gonna get

[SETHGARRETT1]

there is one thing that wrestling fans forget about, yeah we are all passionate about this buisness in different ways, and even though VINCE is the godfather of wrestling, there is one thing that drives any buisness man and that is MONEY, that is why VINCE would gladly welcome ROCK back in a second, if the ROCK came back and took CENA on for the championship EVERYONE would buy the PPV, and just imagine the heat those 2 would get from the crowd during their entrance, and how much money would they make?? "MILLIONS AND MILLIONS" of dollars!!!

[hoodboilu4]

Unless anyone forgot, the last time the rock was on raw they turned him into a heel against Goldberg an Austin, the wwe creative team ruined all respect fans had for him, I don't blame him for leaving and I don't blame him for not sticking around. Who knows, maybe he had to go somewhere important, film the rest of another film, you know?

[spinarooni]

I thought the Rock was funny as hell and did a great job. Sure his dad and grandfather were basically nobodies in our eyes, but were not from there generation. Rock did what the rock does best "entertain". Rock could have said screw it ill act like a prick so they stop asking me to come back. As far as i'm concerned Ric Flair and Rock were ratings success.If you ever watched the emmys or oscars its not serious all the time they joke,cry,cheer,boo. Hof was a success.

[Esteban Ochocinco]

Sigh, more bitching about the Rock. No one is bigger then the business, but looks to me like the Rock is. As said by several others, the whole night was a sham. The only reason Johnson and Maivia were inducted was a cheap way to get the Rock back on TV.

Triple H is jealous of the Rock and his success. For everything that Triple H has done in the business over the last ten years, he will always be second fiddle to the rock and his 5 years in the business, True Story. And Flair, sure it was his night, but Flair has always come across as jealous because he isn't the biggest name in the sport. Flair has always spent his career looking up to Hogan, and the Rock probably reminds him of that.

Overall, this isn't a big deal. Seems to me that a couple of people are jealosu of Mr. Hollywood, oh well.

[jazwaz1]

Do you all honestly believe this report? It looks to me like it was made by some overzealous fan who was mad about him not appearing in wrestling. They have every right to be, but to be making bullshit reports on The Rock that isn't true is just bullshit.

[kenvin100]

Sigh, more bitching about the Rock. No one is bigger then the business, but looks to me like the Rock is. As said by several others, the whole night was a sham. The only reason Johnson and Maivia were inducted was a cheap way to get the Rock back on TV.

Triple H is jealous of the Rock and his success. For everything that Triple H has done in the business over the last ten years, he will always be second fiddle to the rock and his 5 years in the business, True Story. And Flair, sure it was his night, but Flair has always come across as jealous because he isn't the biggest name in the sport. Flair has always spent his career looking up to Hogan, and the Rock probably reminds him of that.

Overall, this isn't a big deal. Seems to me that a couple of people are jealosu of Mr. Hollywood, oh well.

I agree 100% with your statements..Im sure if trips or ric was good enough for hollywood..they would turn their backs compeltely..least some ppl should be thankful for rock's yearly returns..which I think is enough

but honestly John Cena sucks at everything..im sorry but his mic skills were not even close to the rock..wen i watched the HOF ceremony, i watched for one guy: The Rock..This is a man who is known for cutting the best promos in the business! This is wat mcmahon said...wrestling is ENTERTAINMENT! Is Rock the best wrestler in the world? No, thas why Stone Cold is the best wrestler in the attitude era. His rude beer drinking attitude he was given and his wrestling barely edged the rock..barely..

Trips was always known as a man who was jealous..Can you all name one time, he took a back seat for anyone..one team he would let someone else hold the ball..the only name that comes to mind is batista...

Im sure Hogan and a much larger career than Flair, for the record..personally think this is a bunch of over-rated crap..he may have been the man decades ago but thas long over..

[trunksjmd]

Are some of these guys crazy? The rocks speech rocked! I liked how he roasted everyone. That stuff he said about y2j's hair was pretty on the mark along with all the other things he said. I thought he made the ceremony a lot better with his comedy. If the rock thought he was too big for the wwe now, he would have only gave like a 5 min speech and then left. No. But he took the time and energy to put effort into making the night more fun. And he did a great job. He didn't say anything that was toooooo over the top. Come on. The rocks speech showed how much he still loves the wrestling business not the other way around. Had he known that so many people would take so much offense to his comedy act, I'm sure he would have done things differently. He's not a bad guy.

[bucwild]

Yall are wrong,some of yall!!!Rocks granddad and father did do something that makes them HOF!Look at all the Samoans thats in the business:Rikishi,Somoan Swat Team,Haku,Umaga,Samoa Joe.Peter was a big part for that!!!Rocky n Atlas are the first Black Champs which back in the day wrestling was like America didnt see a Black Man or wants a Black Man to shine!(Im black so I have 1st hand).Back in the day all thet mad Blacks do was to dance n look like a fool!I like Rocks speech written by WWE writers!Why cant they get the blame?I bet Trips(steroid n I married the daugter so I can be the man) n Old Break Man shawn faggot Micheals have something to do about this!Ill admit they only inducted them to bring Rock back!Rock I think he bashed Cena cuz I see the shit on youtube were he disses the Rock!They are jealous cuz they thought Rock wasnt gonna be cheered like that!Rock bashed Y2J too he didnt look happy but played it off.I know it was Flairs night but they mad cuz Rock(who hasnt been in WWE awhile )overshadowed Flair which I understand.HBK n Trips love Flair shit me too but dont get mad cuz yall ask Rock to comeback n he leaves then u bash him!They always taking some good shit n makin it bad,like they do in the ring.Always gettin on my man Hogan for it but they turn right around to do so.I heard Nash was thier I know he close to them but why was he there?They always get their way!

[MrScott]

i liked the speach, was funny, but it really seemed more like an introduction to the show like youd see at like the oscars were they do a bunch of retarded jokes to start a funny happy mood to start the show. he barely actually did anything to mention his dad and grandfather in terms of inducting them =-/. like 30second-1min of the 10-15min of his total speech. really should of done more about them and not just jokes and talking about himself.

mind you thats what people wanted to see him doing his wrestling promos, which was just him talking about himself and insulting people. so i guess we kind of got what we wanted =-/

[trunksjmd]

We all did get what we wanted. Hey, I'm satisfied with the rocks speech and I think everyone there at the ceremony was. They all seemed to be laughing didn't they? I think people are right when they say this is a bogus story. You need to question the source and to me this just doesn’t sound right. Perhaps they got it from the National wrestling inquirer. lol.

[NYSandman]

How do we know the Rock wasn't asked to be in character for a little of the speech? This was being promoted to wrestling fans, after all, and we haven't seen the Rock in awhile. Who knows.

Also, as far the Rock forgetting wrestling, we don't know what else was going on besides his movie deals. Maybe he had physical problems, or other things that made him decide to switch. I don't believe it was all about the money.

As far as comments towards Cena, if Cena shooted on him first, I don't blame him. Cena has no business shooting on Shark Boy, let alone one of the greatest talkers of all time.

[NUFCDoug]

This story has only made the airways because, like people said, Triple H and Ric Flair are simply jealous of The Rock.

Ric Flair, however good he was, and he was quite good, is and never will be as worldwide known as The Rock, Steve Austin or Hulk Hogan.

Go up to any person, say who's The Rock? Who's Stone Cold? They'll all say wrestlers. Ask anyone to name 3 wrestlers, they'll name The Rock in that 3 for sure.

Go up to a non wrestling fan and say, hey you know who Ric Flair is? He'll stare at you blankly.

Simply put, for all Ric Flair is, he will NEVER be as big as The Rock.

Same goes for Triple H, sure he;s known of, but for all he's tried to do in his 10 years in the business, he's still nowhere near the levels of popularity and recognition The Rock achieved.

Flair and Trips can have cheap digs all they want at The Rock, but deep down in their hearts, they know its jealousy. Jealous that he is a bigger name than they will EVER be.

[drtalk]

My gut reaction after watching Dwayne's speech was that it was really nothing more than another chance to be in the spotlight and get attention. It's what he's used to I guess. It seemed more about "him" than the Hall of Fame.

The other side of the coin is that he is an entertainer. We all know that the "Rock" was always great on the mic, never at a loss for words and could easily get the reaction needed from the crowd. I just don't think that the Hall of Fame was the appropriate place for the Rock character. More and more we're getting opportunities to see the superstars out of character, and that's what should have been the case with Dwayne. I mean, he was inducting his father & grandfather for God's sake!! I think that called for a much more serious and respectful delivery than what we witnessed.

As much as most of us enjoyed the Rock back in the day, he's been over-hyped and surrounded by "yes men" who's job it is to tell him how great he is. That's Hollywood for 'ya. It's gone to his head...although he denies it.
Sadly, he has chosen a path where he's gone big time and has long forgotten about those little people he stepped on to get there. But there is justice to come. Once you step on everyone on the way up, you meet them again on the inevitable way down. As the saying goes, "Payback is a bitch." It may not happen tomorrow or 5 years from tomorrow, but it WILL happen. Then we'll see the "superstar" who is now a has been, desperately clutching to the memories of what he once was and telling himself he's still the same and still as good. In my opinion, we'll probably see Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson on late night infommercials selling the latest version of the world's smallest juicer or maybe he'll be the new pitchman for Verizon..."Can you hear me know? How 'bout now? Can you smell what I'm cookin'?"

And that my friends is my :twocents:

[Kyphael]

I doubt it. The Rock is making millions... AND MILLIONS (pun) with movies alone. Even if his career goes down the crapper (which I doubt it will), he wouldn't need to subject himself to infommercials or whatever to get by. He seems like the person that invests his money wisely, opposed to Flair who had to wrestle until he was 60 because he was broke and in debt. Them jets and limousine rentals ain't free, you know!

[TZ13]

Just wanted to know what kinda crack your smokin cus it must be great.To say half the crap you did you must have been high will you wrote it.

First the Rock and that who he was when he gave that speech did excatly what they asked and what they wanted. WWE needed it they wanted it. Next to your statement in regards to yes men. Have you ever watched wrestling? The Rock spent his entire career putting over other wrestlers. When he could of pulled a Stone cold or Triple H and looked out for Number1. But no him being the Yes man that he is and understanding that he isnt bigger then the business put over Lesner who wasnt half the worker the he was he put over Goldberg who is still hands down one of the worst Pushes in history so they can get over with the crowd.
So in closing to all who think the rock went to far to the few that think the rock will get his someday when he has to come crawling back just remember one thing IT DOESNT MATTER WHAT YOU THINK and you should just say thank you for the bit of joy and fondness of the good old days that he brought back into the industry we all love.
And thats my :twocents:


My gut reaction after watching Dwayne's speech was that it was really nothing more than another chance to be in the spotlight and get attention. It's what he's used to I guess. It seemed more about "him" than the Hall of Fame.

The other side of the coin is that he is an entertainer. We all know that the "Rock" was always great on the mic, never at a loss for words and could easily get the reaction needed from the crowd. I just don't think that the Hall of Fame was the appropriate place for the Rock character. More and more we're getting opportunities to see the superstars out of character, and that's what should have been the case with Dwayne. I mean, he was inducting his father & grandfather for God's sake!! I think that called for a much more serious and respectful delivery than what we witnessed.

As much as most of us enjoyed the Rock back in the day, he's been over-hyped and surrounded by "yes men" who's job it is to tell him how great he is. That's Hollywood for 'ya. It's gone to his head...although he denies it.
Sadly, he has chosen a path where he's gone big time and has long forgotten about those little people he stepped on to get there. But there is justice to come. Once you step on everyone on the way up, you meet them again on the inevitable way down. As the saying goes, "Payback is a bitch." It may not happen tomorrow or 5 years from tomorrow, but it WILL happen. Then we'll see the "superstar" who is now a has been, desperately clutching to the memories of what he once was and telling himself he's still the same and still as good. In my opinion, we'll probably see Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson on late night infommercials selling the latest version of the world's smallest juicer or maybe he'll be the new pitchman for Verizon..."Can you hear me know? How 'bout now? Can you smell what I'm cookin'?"

And that my friends is my :twocents:

[The Great Khali]

And I'm sure The Rock didn't give a damn,he's done more for the business than the majority of the WWE roster have or ever will and unlike HHH and Austin has proven himself a good actor.

As for taking cheap shots at him it's kind of pathetic really because it reeks of jealously.

[mrmememe]

There was no need for the Rock to behave like that. It's thanks to the WWE that he is succesful as he is.
However, I disagree that he will need the business or choose to return in the future. Dwayne Johnson (I would believe) has plenty of funds to continue the rest of his life at a standard at least equal (if not superior) to that of a normal person who has never experienced fame. And with him being the Rock, he will always have work in Hollywood - because people love him and want to see him.

[Player_1]

I think the main point here is giving back. You think Rock would've had a successful start to his acting career without the WWE? I doubt it. It was the fans that of wrestling that bought them tickets to see him and make him the the actor that he is today. It's easy to say that you would never forget where you came from, but it's another thing to show it.

[FTS]

The WWE wanted the Rock to come back, so they inducted hs father and grandfather together. Fans wanted to see old Rock, so he did a promo for 30 minutes, that he usually does in five. Secondly, at awards shows, there is usually a performance to open the show, and damn it the WWE used the most electrifying performer they've ever had. Anyone who has a problem with it can kiss my ass.

Secondly, if HHH had a problem with it, it's only because he's finally the #1 guy after all this time of being #3 to Rock and Austin. And it serves as a reminder that he was #3 when the biz was on top, and #1 when it's sinking. Jealous much Cena fans? HHH fans? Orton's fan?

I love the WWE, I love pro wrestling, but the jealous, bitter infighting amongst the guys on top is pathetic. For one, I don't want to believe that the article is even true, but it certainly falls along the lines of the jealous assholes who always seem to find a way to the top.

HHH holds people down, JBL ass rapes grown men with soap and Orton shits in purses. Excuse me guys, but has there ever been a discouraging word about Rock or Austin? Just that Rock is Hollywood. Well guess the fuck what, he's an actor, and he's a better actor than jackasses like Keanu Reeves.

That's why people piss themselves when Rock and Austin are around, and get tired of everyone else. Rock was only booed when he wanted to be booed, unlike Cena. Rock would put people over, unlike HHH. Same with Austin, that's why people in the E take shots at them, they along with the Big Show are company guys, and get/got pushes and publicity, while everyone else is a big deal only within wrestling.


Taker and Kane always put people over as well, and make new stars, and Taker is so concerned about the business he never breaks character. These guys aren't included in my rant, they're great.

[OIL]

I love the WWE, I love pro wrestling, but the jealous, bitter infighting amongst the guys on top is pathetic. For one, I don't want to believe that the article is even true, but it certainly falls along the lines of the jealous assholes who always seem to find a way to the top..

I agree. It's not good for the business, and for morale, and for the younger superstars. They do need to sort it out.

HHH holds people down, JBL ass rapes grown men with soap and Orton shits in purses. Excuse me guys, but has there ever been a discouraging word about Rock or Austin? Just that Rock is Hollywood. Well guess the fuck what, he's an actor, and he's a better actor than jackasses like Keanu Reeves. .

I remember Stone Cold creating problems after WrestleMania X-8 when he no-showed the next RAW, and then left for something like 8 months? THAT is bad.

[FTS]

I remember Stone Cold creating problems after WrestleMania X-8 when he no-showed the next RAW, and then left for something like 8 months? THAT is bad.

That one flew by me, but nonetheless, as far as treatment of other guys, you never hear about Stone Cold, Rock, Taker, Kane, Big Show, etc. soap raping, purse shitting, or woman stealing. I've just always gotten the impression that certain guys are one of the guys, and others are backstage politicians.

I don't think HHH would have let Y2J go over him in the final match of the night after he had already gone over Stone Cold. That was awesome, a supreme shock, and good for business.

All I am saying is that no one has a right to get on Rock because he and Stone Cold captained the business while it was at a mainstream high, and HHH is captaining it while it is a successful, yet not nearly as successful business.

And Kelly Kelly is smokin hot. Thank you for that.

[D.Miller]

This story has only made the airways because, like people said, Triple H and Ric Flair are simply jealous of The Rock.

Ric Flair, however good he was, and he was quite good, is and never will be as worldwide known as The Rock, Steve Austin or Hulk Hogan.

Go up to any person, say who's The Rock? Who's Stone Cold? They'll all say wrestlers. Ask anyone to name 3 wrestlers, they'll name The Rock in that 3 for sure.

Go up to a non wrestling fan and say, hey you know who Ric Flair is? He'll stare at you blankly.

Simply put, for all Ric Flair is, he will NEVER be as big as The Rock.

Same goes for Triple H, sure he's known of, but for all he's tried to do in his 10years in the business, he's still nowhere near the levels of popularity and recognition The Rock achieved.

Flair and Trips can have cheap digs all they want at The Rock, but deep down in their hearts, they know its jealousy. Jealous that he is a bigger name than they will EVER be.

What the hell are you talking about? You consider jealousy to be plaguing the hearts of Flair and HHH over The Rock for their talks on The Rock? Give me a damn break and give yourself a damn break too.

Dear you discredit or falsely consider Ric Flair in any way. Everyone knows Ric Flair, and he's damn surely world-widely known. Who gives a rats ass if his popularity isn't inequivalent to that of The Rock, Hogan, and Austin's. Ric Flair is more high classed and more legendary in comparison to the both of them, no disrespect to Rock, Austin or Hogan.

You can't sit there and tell everyone that non-wrestling fans would deny recognition of Ric Flair, the moment they hear his name. There is plenty people out there who've heard of him and most who remember Flair in his glory days. He may not be the first to come to the tip of the tongue but if there is any legendary pro wrestler and I mean pro wrestler not entertainer, Ric Flair definitely comes to mind, especially now in his retirement.

Ric Flair has absolutely and utterly nothing to have his heart eaten over when it comes to The Rock. Ric Flair has had one of the longest and greatest styling and profiling pro wrestling careers in the history of wrestling. He doesn't aspire to become a Hollywood Movie Star, he ain't jealous of The Rock, he's got fans and family that love him and that he loves and a legacy left behind full of great memories to be proud of. Come again and come good too, NUFCDoug.

You know, HHH may not of achieved popularity side-by-side close to The Rock's. But in compensation, 12 World Championship have graced his name. He's proved to be the King of Kings and The Game as out of him, The Rock and Austin, he remains still able-bodied and dedicated to the business. Yeah, at the end of the day, HHH is still in WWE competing for his fans no matter what. He didn't make Hollywood gain his services after the filming of Blade Trinity, he had choices to just make a switch of profession but no, he sticked with WWE.

Summing things up, HHH or Flair jealous of Rock, that's an overstatement! And as far as Rock's behavior at the Hall of Fame Ceremony, very disaapointing if true. Sure, get back in The Rock character since you haven't done so for a while but don't make a 30 minute comedy session out of the WWE and barely contribute any words towards your dad and grandpa, then turn around and leave without meeting up with old friends after having not seen them for so long. Rude. Never forget your friggin roots. If it weren't for WWE, his ultimate stepping stone to Hollywood, he'd not even be popular or likely even a movie star. Love you Rock, but that was seriously rude.

[FTS]

originally poster by d. miller
You know, HHH may not of achieved popularity side-by-side close to The Rock's. But in compensation, 12 World Championship have graced his name.

He's married to the bosses daughter. That might help.

I'm not saying Ric Flair is jealous, and he has done far more than his share for the business. But HHH is a different story. I am a fan of his, don't get me wrong. But for every time he has put someone over, he has killed someone else. Look no further than Jeff Hardy. He won the #1 contender's match, lost the title match, and was still over as hell. He was more over after losing to Orton than he was before. If HHH was a company guy, he would have put Hardy over in the Elimination Chamber. Orton vs. Hardy would have sold the PPV to fans, and WM sells itself beyond that. HBK has taken himself out of the title picture. The only reason he had his last title match was to go in the place of an injured John Cena. Quick impact was the reason. There were six weeks after No Way Out to build Hardy even more than they did already. If HHH wanted to help he would follow Flair and HBK's lead.

In contrast, Rock put everyone and their mother over. Y2J, Stone Cold, Lesnar, and even HHH. He understood that when more people are viewed as viable champs, it makes everyone look better. HHH has lost his title to the same people over and over again.


To sum it all up, Rock did more for the company in his short time on time than HHH has done in his career, therefore HHH shouldn't be taking shots at the Rock.


Flair, on the hand, can do whatever he wants.

[D.Miller]

He's married to the bosses daughter. That might help.

I'm not saying Ric Flair is jealous, and he has done far more than his share for the business. But HHH is a different story. I am a fan of his, don't get me wrong. But for every time he has put someone over, he has killed someone else. Look no further than Jeff Hardy. He won the #1 contender's match, lost the title match, and was still over as hell. He was more over after losing to Orton than he was before. If HHH was a company guy, he would have put Hardy over in the Elimination Chamber. Orton vs. Hardy would have sold the PPV to fans, and WM sells itself beyond that. HBK has taken himself out of the title picture. The only reason he had his last title match was to go in the place of an injured John Cena. Quick impact was the reason. There were six weeks after No Way Out to build Hardy even more than they did already. If HHH wanted to help he would follow Flair and HBK's lead.

In contrast, Rock put everyone and their mother over. Y2J, Stone Cold, Lesnar, and even HHH. He understood that when more people are viewed as viable champs, it makes everyone look better. HHH has lost his title to the same people over and over again.


To sum it all up, Rock did more for the company in his short time on time than HHH has done in his career, therefore HHH shouldn't be taking shots at the Rock.


Flair, on the hand, can do whatever he wants.

He's married to the chairman's daughter and has a total package for the wrestling business in which without that, Vince would've never put him atop the wrestling promotion, regardless of relation. Proof? Well why isn't his son, Shane McMahon atop the business? Point proven.

Jeff Hardy ruined Jeff Hardy, all repect to Jeff though. Triple H never downed him, in fact, Triple H put him over once already giving him the opportunity to spring (note: Cena was the last main guy HHH put over at WM22 before at WM24 making that Orton) and Hardy downed himself by going off and failing a drug test right when his momentum level was at the sky. It's a good thing HHH never put him over in the Elimination Chamber Match because it would've totally screwed the No. 1 Contendership scene up due to his 60 day suspension. Orton vs. J.Hardy would've been nice at Mania 24 but once again, Hardy screwed Hardy up.

HBK had never wanted the WWE Championship back again since he won it in 2002. He has stated that he doesn't want the WWE Title so if he's in a WWE Title Match, he's just being used as a filler.

Triple H is a different character from The Rock. We all know Triple H as this dominating character. I mean, doesn't his nicknames explain it all? If he's "The Game" and "The King of Kings" and "The Cerebral Assassin", ask yourself, would a game allow you to beat it? Would a King allow another King to rule over him if he's King of Kings? NO! And as for the alias "Cerebral Assassin", a cerebral assassin is a murderer with intellect so basically HHH murders talent if that makes sense. Triple H is just playing to his character but I understand that he is truly picky and reluctant to really job to wrestlers outside of the main impact players. He figures most of the other guys just aren't ready and it seems neither is he.

The Rock jobbed profusely, I agree, while staying over with the fans during his short run in the company. He has done a lot for the business too entertainment-wise but saying he's done more for the company than HHH has done in his career, overstatement. HHH has done a lot for his character and for the business. The man could've quit wrestling after the 2 quad injuries but he remained in the game. I believe most of his work in done behind the scenes, going over the choreography of performance with other wrestlers for their matches as well as I'm sure, other stuff. And as I stated before, he is still in the WWE so in my opinion, he can take shots at The Rock if he likes. At least he knows he didn't permanently leave WWE for Hollywood although I'd say, Rock doesn't really owe WWE anything when speaking of him returning to a wrestling ring but he should of stayed or even returned for all upcoming WrestleMania's to have a match.

[Rocklover4life]

Secondly, Rock isnt physically ready for wrestling..lets remember that back in 04, he has muscles that looked like a pillar..i mean he looks awesome right now. Lean and still in great shape, but for wrestling? If he did a rock bottom or lifting a guy over his shoulders, i think it'll hurt lol

And I doubt he will return even if hollywood rejects him completely. Lets remember that this is a tough business. Sure its fake, but you gotta travel tons. People get injured in this business. It might have been a "great ride" (quote the briscos) for some but ended in misfortune for others...


(lol)...You took the words right out of my mouth. Rock still look good and all but, right now, he is NOT physically ready for wrestling anymore. The man is nothing but bone and muscles now. He did have a little fat back then which gave him the advantage, but its no more. So as for the people who want him to come back and wrestle.... FORGET IT!


And If Hollywood kicked The Rock to the curve in the future I can assure you that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson WILL NOT return to the WWE or ANY wrestling organization, PERIOD. I bet he'll do more humanitarian work or start his own business then to go back there (like Hogan did) and get injured up some more. That's not gonna happen.

[FTS]

My only point, D.Miller, is that if, in fact, HHH was sniping at The Rock, he has no right. I am a HHH fan, don't get me wrong. I just think that, with as much control as he has over his character, you would think after 11 championships, he would me interested in his legacy. At this point, it just seems that he is chasing the ghost of Ric Flair. If he gets to 17, he still doesn't mean as much to the business as Flair, so step aside.

I will give him credit, except for two hours at No Mercy, he hasn't been on top for a while. I do respect that, but he and Cena could have a nice six month feud, and then they could fight a new champ, and lose to legitimize a new star.

And as far as Shane being on top, come on.....

And as far as HHH having the TOTAL package, come on.....

They're both very good at a few things, HHH moreso, but neither of them are as athletic as Rocky was/is.