Join us for a riveting episode of "Beyond the Mat," shoot interview where wrestling legend Rocky Johnson takes us through the extraordinary journey of his life and career in the squared circle. From his early days lifting makeshift weights to his trials in the coal mines and his narrow escape from a life-threatening mine explosion, Rocky lays it all bare. Hear firsthand about the lessons from his father, a descendant of slaves, that shaped him both in and out of the ring. Delve into his unexpected entry into wrestling, spurred by a chance encounter that set him on the path to becoming a legend and the proud father of The Rock, one of wrestling's biggest icons. This shoot interview peels back the layers of Rocky’s storied career, his philosophical insights on life and wrestling, and his deep, personal reflections on his family legacy. Don't miss this unscripted and intimate discussion with one of the true trailblazers of professional wrestling. (00:01) Rocky Johnson reminisces about his weight-lifting days and the changes he's seen in people from his past, introducing him as a wrestling legend and father of The Rock.(01:07) Discusses his heritage, emphasizing his background as a descendant of slaves and the hard work ethic instilled by his father.(02:04) Rocky shares his motivations for getting into bodybuilding and wrestling, inspired by books and makeshift weights.(03:04) Talks about his early jobs and a life-changing incident when he narrowly escaped a mine explosion, attributing it to a guardian angel.(04:35) Details his transition into professional wrestling, meeting a trainer who introduced him to the sport and how it led to his wrestling career.