WWE Hall Of Famer Unveils Ron Simmons’ Impact On The Rock’s Wrestling Journey

In a recent episode of the popular wrestling podcast “Something To Wrestle With,” WWE legend John Bradshaw Layfield offered unprecedented insights into the crucial role played by WWE Hall of Famer Ron Simmons in shaping the career of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

JBL’s comments shed light on the early days of The Rock’s wrestling journey and the mentorship that helped forge one of the industry’s biggest stars.

Former WWE Champion JBL, emphasised Simmons’ pivotal influence during The Rock’s formative years in the WWE, particularly when both were members of the Nation of Domination faction.

Ron was the perfect guy for [working with Rock]. Nobody knew he’s going to be the biggest star in the history of the freaking world. I don’t think anybody thought that, but we knew he would be huge.

JBL – also a WWE Hall of Famer highlighted the unique mentor-mentee relationship between Simmons and Johnson, revealing that many of The Rock’s iconic catchphrases and mannerisms were inspired by Simmons.

Ron knew that he was going to be a mentor to this young, really good-looking, charismatic guy, and Ron took that role very seriously. You know, a lot of stuff Rocky got was from Ron, a lot of his sayings. But nothing’s original, you know. And Ron liked Rocky, he really did.

Beyond his influence on The Rock, JBL painted a picture of Simmons as a trailblazer in the wrestling industry, drawing parallels to baseball legend Jackie Robinson.

Ron broke that barrier not because he was equal to what’s on the other side. Ron broke that barrier because he was better. Because he’s Ron Simmons.. What he did was pave the way for all of the people out there, not just black, anybody that should be able to make it.

JBL, who had the honour of inducting Simmons into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2012, described his former tag team partner as “a pillar of this industry” whose impact continues to resonate.

When he talks to young guys, he talks to them in a way that is the wise old mentor. Ron’s one of the best things that’s happened in this business… and one of the most important guys in our history.

These revelations offer wrestling fans a deeper appreciation of Simmons’ contributions, both as a ground breaking performer and as a crucial mentor in shaping one of wrestling’s biggest stars, The Rock.

What Did WWE Hall Of Famer JBL Say About His Days Teaming With Ron Simmons?

JBL discussed his time as a member of the APA with Ron Simmons and how he sees those days as his favourite he ever had in his career. JBL also revealed that if he could go back in time and he would have stayed in the APA tag team with Simmons instead of becoming a singles star.

H/t to 411mania.com