Gabe Kidd Dares Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson to Step Into His NJPW Ring
Gabe Kidd isn’t backing down from anyone—not even The Rock.
The New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) standout made headlines after responding to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s viral Instagram post from April, which showed the wrestling icon wearing an NJPW T-shirt. For many fans, it was a sign that Johnson may be eyeing the Japanese promotion. But for Kidd, it was just another Hollywood move.
“He’s trying to catch a buzz off of what’s hot,” Kidd said in a recent interview with MuscleManMalcolm. “Listen, I couldn’t care less about Dwayne. I don’t care. If he wants to come to New Japan, I’ll slap him up, no problem.”
Kidd, 26, is one of NJPW’s most unapologetically brash rising stars. Known for his no-filter attitude and stiff in-ring style, the War Dogs member has earned a reputation for saying exactly what’s on his mind—and backing it up in the ring.
As for The Rock, the social media post stirred speculation across the wrestling world. While Johnson hasn’t confirmed any formal involvement with NJPW, his move to publicly rep the promotion sent shockwaves through fans hungry for cross-promotional action. Whether it’s a one-off nod or a teaser for a potential appearance, Kidd is clearly ready to make a statement if Johnson steps into his territory.
“It’s Dwayne Johnson, bro. He was in Jumanji 2,” Kidd added with a laugh, brushing off the Hollywood heavyweight’s larger-than-life aura.
For now, Kidd will focus on his next match, where he's teaming with his War Dogs allies in an eight-man tag at NJPW Resurgence. But if The Rock ever shows up on Japanese soil, he may have more than fanfare waiting—he’ll have Gabe Kidd waiting to “slap him up.”
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