The Rock reveals the secret to his relationship with Vince McMahon

One big thing: Mutual respect and hard work

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson credits his strong relationship with former WWE boss Vince McMahon to a shared appreciation for hard work and respect for the wrestling business.

• On the “PBD Podcast,” Johnson opened up about his bond with McMahon, highlighting their mutual understanding of the wrestling industry’s demands.
• The Rock emphasized his willingness to “work for every dollar” and his “boundless respect for the business of pro wrestling.”

Key quote:

“The relationship with Vince and I was a great relationship because it was based on I’m willing to work for every dollar … it was about the work,” Johnson said.

Why it matters

The Rock’s insights provide a rare glimpse into the business relationship between one of WWE’s biggest stars and its longtime CEO, offering valuable context for understanding the company’s success during the Attitude Era.

Behind the scenes

• Johnson shared an anecdote about renegotiating his WWE contract, initially asking for $2 million after learning Steve Austin was the highest-paid wrestler at $1 million.
• He later revised his request to $1.5 million after McMahon asked him to learn more about the financial side of the business.

The big picture

The Rock’s relationship with McMahon extended beyond their on-screen personas, showcasing how mutual respect and business acumen can lead to long-lasting partnerships in the wrestling industry.

What do you think about The Rock’s approach to his relationship with Vince McMahon? How do you think this kind of relationship impacts a wrestler’s career? Share your thoughts in the comments below.