29 years ago today: The Rock made his WWE debut at Survivor Series as 'Rocky Maivia'

The Rock has become one of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has become one of the biggest stars not just in the pro wrestling world but in the entertainment industry in general. After conquering the squared circle, he transitioned into Hollywood, becoming one of the highest-paid actors.

However, today we will take a look at the day when it all began 29 years ago at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Rocky Maivia debuted in an eight-man elimination tag match

Johnson first stepped into a WWE ring 29 years ago today at the 1996 Survivor Series, which emanated from Madison Square Garden in New York on November 17. He competed in an eight-man elimination tag match, where he emerged as the sole survivor by taking out the final two opponents, Crush and Goldust.

Johnson first entered the WWE (then WWF) in and performed under the name ‘Rocky Maivia’, a tribute that blended the names of his father, Rocky Johnson, and his grandfather, Peter Maivia. At the time, he portrayed a bright-eyed, heroic newcomer.

However, his character wasn’t received well by fans who chanted “Die, Rocky, die!” and “Rocky sucks!” during his matches. However, Johnson turned the tide after turning heel and joining Nation of Domination, and started referring to himself as “The Rock”. 

Since then, Johnson became one of the biggest names in the pro wrestling industry and slowly transitioned into Hollywood during the early 2000s. Similar to his pro wrestling career, he faced some initial challenges, but soon became one of the biggest names.

Johnson became the highest-paid actor in the world in 2024, earning approximately $88 million according to Forbes.

His last WWE appearance came during the 2025 edition of Elimination Chamber PLE, where he was part of the historic John Cena’s heel turn. However, he has been absent from WWE programming, busy with his business ventures and movies.

This frustrated many fans, as it not only spoiled the heel turn of one of the industry’s biggest stars but also left audiences craving more. Even so, whenever Johnson does make his return, it’s bound to be an iconic moment.

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