From wrestling to acting to entrepreneurship, this "Marvel" truly has raised the bar for brand-making! [Monday: Marketing Marvels]

Miles Everson • April 7, 2025

From the desk of Miles Everson:

Hi!

I hope you are all well-rested today.

Let’s kickstart a new week by talking about our “Marketing Marvels.” Every Monday, we highlight outstanding individuals from whom we can learn interesting and helpful marketing and business insights.

Today, let’s focus on one of the most iconic celebrities of all time.

Read on below to learn how this “Marvel” was able to craft a brand name that transcends boundaries.




From wrestling to acting to entrepreneurship, this "Marvel" truly has raised the bar for brand-making!

Did you know that in the world of business and entertainment, there exists a name sooooo powerful that it instantly evokes images of strength, charisma, and success?

This name is not just a brand; it’s also a symbol of perseverance, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Allow us to give you clues about who this person is…

This man began his journey in the rough and tumble world of professional wrestling , where he built an empire of fans who chanted his catchphrases and idolized his every move.

… but he didn’t stop there. He transitioned into Hollywood, where he became one of the most bankable stars of all time.

Then, he ventured into entrepreneurship, launched successful businesses, and dominated social media, all while maintaining a relatable and authentic persona that resonates with millions around the world.

Any guess on who we’re referring to?

Yes, we’re talking about Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson , a true “Marketing Marvel” of today’s time!

A Journey Rooted in Resilience

Johnson was born on May 2, 1972 into a family with a rich wrestling heritage. His father, Rocky Johnson, was a professional wrestler, as was his maternal grandfather, Peter Maivia.

Growing up, Johnson moved frequently due to his father’s career, living in places as diverse as New Zealand and the United States. These experiences shaped his worldview and built the resilience that would later define his career.

Johnson initially pursued a career in football, playing for the University of Miami and even joining the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League .

However, after being cut from the team, he faced a turning point in his life. With a few options, he turned to professional wrestling—a decision that changed the course of his life.

The Rise of “The Rock”

Johnson’s entry into the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) , then known as the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) , was the beginning of his meteoric rise to stardom.

Initially introduced as Rocky Maivia, he quickly rebranded himself as “The Rock,” a character that blended his father’s first name and grandfather’s surname.

“The Rock” was everything audiences craved: brash, confident, and endlessly entertaining.

Because of that, he became one of the most iconic figures in wrestling history, known for his electrifying promos, catchphrases like, “If you smell what ‘The Rock’ is cooking,” and his undeniable charisma.

However, Johnson wasn’t content with just being a wrestling legend. So, when he saw opportunities beyond the ring, he began transitioning to acting.

His breakout role in “The Scorpion King” was the start. Over the years, he has become one of Hollywood’s highest-paid and most reliable actors, starring in blockbusters like the “Fast & Furious” series, “Jumanji,” and “Moana.”

… BUT WAIT, there’s more!

What makes Johnson a “Marketing Marvel” is not just his success in wrestling and acting, but also his ability to seamlessly transition across industries while maintaining a consistent and powerful personal brand.

Here’s how he did it:

  • Authenticity and Relatability : Despite his fame and success, Johnson has always remained grounded and relatable. He shares his struggles and triumphs with his audience, making them feel connected to him on a personal level. This has earned him a loyal following.
  • Social Media Savvy : Johnson has mastered the art of social media, using platforms like Instagram , X (formerly known as Twitter) , and Facebook to engage with his fans directly. His posts are a mix of personal stories, motivational content, and promotions for his projects and products. This has made him a powerful influencer in the digital age.
  • Strategic Partnerships : Johnson has leveraged his brand to forge successful partnerships with companies like Under Armour , leading to the creation of the “Project Rock” line, which has become a top-selling athletic wear collection. He’s also ventured into the spirits industry with Teremana Tequila , which has seen tremendous success due in part to his marketing genius.
  • Global Appeal: Johnson’s brand transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. His movies perform well globally, and his social media presence has a vast international following. This global appeal is a testament to the universality of his brand and the careful cultivation of his image.

Lessons in Business and Marketing

Clearly, there’s much to learn from Johnson’s journey!

… and when it comes to building a brand and marketing it effectively, here’s what we can glean from his life and experiences:

  • Consistency is Key : Johnson’s brand has remained consistent over the years. Whether he’s wrestling, acting, or launching a new business, the core values of hard work , resilience , and positivity are always present. This has helped him build a strong, recognizable brand that resonates with people worldwide.
  • Engage with the Audience : Johnson’s success on social media shows the importance of engaging with the audience. By sharing personal stories and interacting with fans, he has built a loyal following that supports his ventures.
  • Diversify One’s Portfolio : Johnson’s ability to succeed across different industries is a reminder that diversification can be a powerful strategy. By not limiting himself to one field, he has expanded his brand’s reach and ensured its longevity.
  • Adaptability : The ability to adapt is crucial in business. Johnson transitioned from wrestling to acting, and from acting to entrepreneurship, all while maintaining his brand’s integrity. This has kept him relevant in an ever-changing landscape.

Overall, Johnson’s rise from being a wrestling superstar to a global entertainment icon is a testament to the power of personal branding, authenticity, and strategic thinking.

His journey offers valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the importance of engaging with the audience.

What else?

As a “Marketing Marvel,” Johnson’s legacy goes beyond his achievements in wrestling and acting; it lies in his ability to inspire and connect with millions around the world, proving that with the right approach, anything is possible .

We hope you enjoyed reading today’s topic!

Take note of these tips and insights so you and your brand can also achieve success just like “The Rock!”

Are you now inspired and ready to craft a name that transcends boundaries?

Hope you’ve found this week’s topic interesting and helpful.

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Stay tuned for next Monday’s Marketing Marvels!

Since its inception in 2003, Steam has become the one-stop shop for gamers across the globe for all of their gaming needs.

Learn more about the “Marvel” behind the digital storefront’s success in next week’s article!

Miles Everson

CEO of MBO Partners and former Global Advisory and Consulting CEO at PwC, Everson has worked with many of the world's largest and most prominent organizations, specializing in executive management. He helps companies balance growth, reduce risk, maximize return, and excel in strategic business priorities.


He is a sought-after public speaker and contributor and has been a case study for success from Harvard Business School.


Everson is a Certified Public Accountant, a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a B.S. in Accounting.

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