Dwayne 'the Rock' Johnson posts heartbreaking tribute to late father Rocky Johnson: 'I'll always be your proud and grateful son'

Two days after the death of WWE Hall of Famer Rocky Johnson, his son, Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, shared some emotional words about him.

The Rock posted a statement to Instagram in which he described the elder Johnson as someone who “broke color barriers” and “became a ring legend.” The actor also explained that he transformed as a young boy who adored his father to someone who respected him. He thanked Johnson, who was known as “Soul Man,” for teaching him the value of hard work and other “invaluable life lessons.”

“You lived a very full, very hard, barrier breaking life and left it all in the ring,” the Fast and Furious franchise star wrote in part. “I love you dad and I’ll always be your proud and grateful son. Go rest high.”

Actor and comedian Kevin Hart, who starred alongside the Rock in the Jumanji films, had a sweet reaction to his friend’s message: “Love you bro.”

Actor D.L. Hughley said it was a “beautiful sentiment.” He added, “My sincerest condolences brother.”

Rush Hour star Chris Tucker sent his sympathies as well: “Praying for you and your family.”

Given Rocky Johnson’s immense importance to the wrestling world, many people from that community shared kind words, too, upon the news of his death.

Among other accomplishments, the late Johnson was one half of the first African-American duo to win WWE’s World Tag Team Championship. He also, of course, trained his now famous son for the ring and beyond.

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