Fresh Air Best Of: Dwayne Johnson / Comic Cristela Alonzo
Oct 11, 2025
Dwayne Johnson, the charismatic actor and former WWE superstar, dives into his role in The Smashing Machine and his wrestling legacy. He shares the journey from his early persona, Rocky Maivia, to becoming The Rock and the authenticity that resonated with fans. Cristela Alonzo, a talented comedian and actress, opens up about her challenging childhood living in an abandoned diner and the impact of recent ICE raids. Her new special, Upper Classy, highlights her rise from extreme poverty to her current success, shedding light on mixed-status family struggles.
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Career Pivot Avoided By Reinvention
- Dwayne Johnson considered switching to MMA because it paid better and had fewer events per year than pro wrestling.
- He stayed after WWE retooled him as a heel, which launched The Rock persona and changed his career trajectory.
Becoming The Rock On Live TV
- Johnson describes how being turned into a heel let him stop performing a forced 'smile' and be authentic.
- The crowd recognized that authenticity and The Rock persona was born almost overnight.
Wrestling Finish Turned Real Injury
- Johnson recounts the WrestleMania match where an unplanned suplex caused real lung bleeding during a scripted finish.
- He emphasizes wrestling is rehearsed but real injuries and blood can still occur.