The Rock shocked veteran wrestler Curt Hawkins with his grueling training routine as WrestleMania 40 approached, showing the same intensity that made him a WWE legend. In the weeks leading up to the two‑night event, the Hollywood megastar turned a simple gym session into a full‑scale rehearsal, leaving Hawkins speechless.
How did the training unfold?
Hawkins, whose real name is Brian Myers, explained that The Rock’s schedule forced the team to set up a ring wherever he was filming – from New Orleans to Miami. "We were like his personal crash test dummies," he told Chris Van Vliet. The Rock would call the spots, then immediately count the crowd’s reaction, measuring each move’s impact. The result was a series of high‑octane drills that mimicked the WrestleMania stage.
Why does The Rock’s preparation matter?
The Rock’s return to the squared circle as “The Final Boss” on night one in Philadelphia set the tone for the whole show. His partnership with Roman Reigns and the dramatic finish on night two, where Cody Rhodes captured the title, highlighted how vital his conditioning was. Hawkins noted that the megastar’s ability to gauge timing and crowd response gave him a unique edge, something no ordinary actor could replicate.
What did Hawkins learn from the experience?
According to Hawkins, watching The Rock work reinforced why the wrestler‑turned‑actor remains a top draw. "You just see why this guy is so successful," he said. The Rock’s meticulous approach to each spot, combined with his relentless work ethic, showed that his fame isn’t just about charisma – it’s about disciplined preparation that translates to electrifying performances.
What’s next for The Rock?
While no official return has been announced beyond WrestleMania 40, fans are left wondering if the “Final Boss” will step back into the ring again. Hawkins hinted that the gap left by The Rock’s character could be felt for years, especially after his role in turning John Cena heel. For now, the wrestling world watches, waiting for the next surprise from the legend who can still dominate both Hollywood and the WWE arena.
How did the partnership with Roman Reigns shape the event?
On night one in Philadelphia, The Rock teamed with his Bloodline cousin Roman Reigns, delivering a high‑impact performance that energized the crowd. Their chemistry helped build momentum that carried into night two’s climax, where Cody Rhodes secured the championship. The Rock’s involvement added star power and helped elevate the entire card, proving his presence still carries massive weight.
The training sessions, described by Hawkins as “unbelievable,” underscore the dedication required to compete at WrestleMania’s highest level. Even with a packed filming schedule, The Rock managed to squeeze in relentless drills, proving that his legendary status is backed by relentless effort.
Fans and insiders alike will keep an eye on any future announcements, but one thing is clear: The Rock’s preparation for WrestleMania 40 set a new benchmark for how a superstar can balance Hollywood commitments with the physical demands of professional wrestling.