‘I Wanted to Be Bigger Than Will Smith’: The Rock’s Risky Decision That Changed His Destiny

‘I Wanted to Be Bigger Than Will Smith’: The Rock’s Risky Decision That Changed His Destiny

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s story is one of relentless ambition, daring choices, and an unshakeable belief in his potential. From humble beginnings in the world of professional wrestling to becoming one of the highest-paid and most beloved actors in Hollywood, The Rock’s journey was far from smooth. But it was a single, bold decision early in his career—firing his agents and taking control of his destiny—that set him on the path to superstardom.

The Wrestling Roots That Built a Global Icon

Long before Dwayne Johnson became The Rock, he was just a young man chasing the dream of making a name for himself. Born into a family of wrestlers, Johnson followed in the footsteps of his father, Rocky Johnson, and grandfather, Peter Maivia. But his initial aspirations didn’t include wrestling.

After a promising football career at the University of Miami, an injury dashed his dreams of playing in the NFL. It was then, with only $7 in his pocket—a fact he frequently references in interviews—that he turned to professional wrestling.

In the late 1990s, Johnson entered the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) and quickly rose to fame as “The Rock.” His natural charisma, electrifying personality, and catchphrases like “Can you smell what The Rock is cooking?” made him a household name. But despite his success in wrestling, Johnson wanted more.

The Hollywood Dream

By the early 2000s, Johnson began eyeing a transition into acting. His first major role in The Scorpion King (2002) earned him $5.5 million, a record-breaking salary for an actor’s first leading role. But Hollywood wasn’t quick to embrace him.

The Rock’s early films, including The Rundown (2003) and Walking Tall (2004), were moderately successful, but they failed to establish him as a serious leading man. At the time, Hollywood struggled to understand how to market Johnson. Was he an action hero? A comedic actor? A family-friendly star?

The Turning Point: Firing His Agents

In the midst of these challenges, Johnson made a decision that would change everything. Dissatisfied with how his career was being handled, he fired his agents and began rebuilding his team from scratch.

At the heart of this decision was his belief that his agents didn’t truly understand his vision. “I didn’t want to be pigeonholed,” Johnson later said in an interview. “I wanted to be bigger than Will Smith or George Clooney. I wanted to do it all—action, comedy, family films, and even musicals.”

This move was risky. Without experienced agents, Johnson had to trust his instincts and rely on his inner circle, including his ex-wife and business partner, Dany Garcia. Together, they formed Seven Bucks Productions, named after the amount of money Johnson had in his wallet when he first started wrestling.

Reinventing Himself as a Brand

Seven Bucks Productions became more than a production company; it was a vehicle for Johnson to shape his career on his terms. The company’s ethos was built around hard work, authenticity, and a relentless drive to connect with audiences.

The shift was evident in his choice of roles. Johnson began starring in big-budget franchises like Fast & Furious while also taking risks with family-friendly films like Tooth Fairy (2010). Though some critics doubted his range, Johnson’s charm and work ethic won over audiences.

Social media also became a cornerstone of his strategy. With over 380 million followers on Instagram (as of 2025), Johnson built a direct connection with fans. He used his platforms not only to promote his projects but also to share personal moments, workout routines, and motivational messages.

The Rise of a Hollywood Titan

By the mid-2010s, Johnson had achieved what once seemed impossible: he became Hollywood’s most bankable star. Films like Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and Hobbs & Shaw (2019) grossed billions worldwide, solidifying his status as a box-office draw.

Beyond acting, Johnson diversified his empire. From launching the tequila brand Teremana to producing hit TV shows like Young Rock, he expanded his influence far beyond the silver screen. He even became a part-owner of the XFL, a professional football league, fulfilling his lifelong love for the sport.

What Sets The Rock Apart?

Johnson’s success can be attributed to more than just his talent. His unique combination of humility and ambition sets him apart in an industry known for egos. Despite his larger-than-life persona, Johnson often credits his fans, family, and team for his achievements.

Another key factor is his work ethic. Johnson is famously disciplined, often starting his day at 4 a.m. with an intense workout. “The work doesn’t stop just because you’ve made it,” he often says.

Finally, Johnson’s authenticity resonates with audiences. Whether he’s sharing his struggles or celebrating his victories, he comes across as relatable and grounded—a rarity for someone of his stature.

The Legacy of a Risk-Taker

Looking back, Johnson’s decision to fire his agents was more than just a career move; it was a declaration of self-belief. By taking control of his narrative, he proved that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about vision, strategy, and the courage to take risks.

Today, The Rock is more than a movie star; he’s a global phenomenon. His journey from wrestling to Hollywood and beyond serves as a testament to the power of ambition and determination. As he once said, “Success isn’t overnight. It’s when every day you get a little better than the day before. It all adds up.”

And for Dwayne Johnson, it’s clear: those days have added up to something extraordinary.