Ata Johnson is a remarkable woman, best known as the mother of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, one of the world’s most famous wrestlers and actors. Born into a family deeply rooted in wrestling, Ata grew up surrounded by legends like Peter Maivia, her adoptive father, and Lia Maivia, her mother, who was one of the first female wrestling promoters in history. Her life reflects love, family values, and a legacy that shaped her son’s journey to global fame.
Quick Bio of Ata Johnson
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mataniufeagaimaleata Fitisemanu Maivia |
| Known As | Ata Johnson |
| Born | October 25, 1948 |
| Age | 77 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Samoan |
| Height | 5′5″ (165 cm) |
| Spouse | Rocky Johnson (1978–2003) |
| Children | Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson |
| Grandchildren | Simone Alexandra, Jasmine, Tiana |
| Net Worth | $3–3.5 million USD |
| Movies / TV | Moana 2, Young Rock, WrestleMania events |
| Wrestling Family | Peter Maivia, Lia Maivia, Anoa’i family |
Early Life of Ata Johnson
Ata Johnson, born as Mataniufeagaimaleata Fitisemanu Maivia on October 25, 1948, in Hawaii, United States, grew up in a household deeply connected to wrestling. Her adoptive father, Peter Maivia, was a famous professional wrestler, while her mother, Lia Maivia, managed wrestling promotions in Hawaii. From a young age, Ata learned about discipline, courage, and family responsibility. This early exposure shaped her character and the upbringing of her son, Dwayne Johnson, who would later become a global superstar.
Family and Heritage
Ata Johnson comes from a proud Samoan heritage and is American by nationality. Her family is linked to the Anoa’i wrestling dynasty, which includes wrestling icons like Roman Reigns, The Usos, Rikishi, Yokozuna, and Nia Jax. Although Ata was never a wrestler herself, she was deeply involved in the family’s wrestling life. She instilled cultural values, respect, and tradition in her son, which contributed to his success in wrestling and Hollywood.
Marriage to Rocky Johnson
Ata Johnson met Rocky Johnson, a Canadian-born professional wrestler, while he trained with her father’s wrestling team. Rocky was already a wrestling star, known for being one of the first Black champions in WWE history alongside Tony Atlas. They married on December 22, 1978, and had Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson together. The couple remained married for more than 25 years before divorcing in 2003. Rocky had two children, Curtis and Wanda, from his previous marriage to Una Johnson, which added more members to their blended family.
Parents and Wrestling Legacy
The influence of Ata’s parents on her life was significant. Her adoptive father, Peter Maivia, trained countless wrestlers and became a wrestling legend. Her mother, Lia Maivia, was a trailblazer as one of the first women to promote wrestling events. These experiences taught Ata Johnson leadership, dedication, and the importance of family unity. She passed these lessons to Dwayne Johnson, who inherited her values and combined them with his father’s wrestling legacy to rise as a global entertainment icon.
Ata Johnson’s Children and Grandchildren
The most famous child of Ata Johnson is Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who grew up surrounded by wrestling legends. Dwayne married and had three daughters: Simone Alexandra Johnson (Ava), Jasmine Johnson, and Tiana Gia Johnson. These girls are Ata’s grandchildren. Simone Johnson has already followed the family tradition by joining WWE, continuing the legacy started by Peter Maivia, Lia Maivia, and Rocky Johnson. This continuity of the wrestling tradition highlights Ata’s influence across generations.
Ata Johnson’s Age and Height
As of 2025, Ata Johnson is 77 years old. She is about 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall. Though she keeps a low-profile personal life, her presence at family gatherings, wrestling events, and public appearances has always been notable. Her elegance, discipline, and strong personality have earned her respect in both the wrestling and entertainment communities.
Net Worth of Ata Johnson
Ata Johnson has an estimated net worth of $3–3.5 million USD. Her wealth comes from family businesses, public appearances, and legal settlements. Even though she did not pursue acting like her son, her value lies in her legacy, family influence, and cultural contributions. Her guidance and support were instrumental in shaping Dwayne Johnson’s path from wrestling to Hollywood stardom.
Ata Johnson in Movies and Television
While not a professional actress, Ata Johnson has appeared in movies and TV shows. She was part of Moana 2, credited for a voice role, and played herself in the television series Young Rock, which chronicles Dwayne Johnson’s childhood. She has also appeared in wrestling events like WrestleMania, connecting her legacy to both wrestling and entertainment. Despite rumors, she was not in Hobbs & Shaw, and online misinformation often spreads about this.
Nationality and Cultural Background
Ata Johnson is American, born in Hawaii, but her Samoan heritage plays a central role in her life. Samoan culture emphasizes respect, family, and tradition. Ata passed these values to Dwayne Johnson, who credits his mother’s cultural teachings for his strength, discipline, and leadership. Her story illustrates how cultural roots and family influence can shape a person’s character and career.
Ata Johnson’s Connection to Nia Jax
Through Samoan traditions and extended family connections, Ata Johnson is considered connected to Nia Jax, a WWE superstar. Though not a blood relative, Samoan culture treats extended and adopted family members as real family. These connections make Ata a respected matriarch in wrestling circles. Her guidance and familial influence have helped preserve the wrestling culture across generations.
House and Personal Life
Ata Johnson maintains a private life outside the spotlight. She has lived in several locations in the United States and keeps her family’s personal life largely confidential. She is reported to have a beautiful family home, but details are rarely public. Despite her discretion, her impact on her family is evident, from raising a global superstar to preserving traditions and values across generations.
Ata Johnson’s Influence on Dwayne Johnson
The role of Ata Johnson in shaping Dwayne Johnson cannot be overstated. She provided a strong foundation of love, culture, and respect, which helped him navigate the challenges of wrestling and Hollywood. Her lessons on perseverance, humility, and family commitment influenced his career choices, public image, and charitable work. Without Ata, the story of The Rock would be incomplete.
Ata Johnson’s Legacy
Ata Johnson is a symbol of strength, family, and tradition. She represents the Samoan cultural heritage that has shaped many wrestling dynasties, including the Anoa’i family. Through her son Dwayne Johnson, her grandchildren, and the extended wrestling family, Ata’s legacy continues to inspire new generations. She remains a guiding figure, teaching respect, loyalty, and the importance of cultural roots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Ata Johnson?
Ata Johnson is the mother of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and a key figure in the Samoan wrestling family.
How old is Ata Johnson?
She was born on October 25, 1948, making her 77 years old as of 2025.
Was Ata Johnson a professional wrestler?
No, she was not a wrestler but was deeply involved in the wrestling world through her family.
Who are Ata Johnson’s grandchildren?
Her grandchildren are Simone Alexandra (Ava), Jasmine, and Tiana Johnson, with Simone following the family tradition in WWE.
Who was Ata Johnson married to?
She was married to Rocky Johnson from 1978 to 2003 and is currently not married.
Conclusion
Ata Johnson is more than the mother of Dwayne Johnson. She is a part of wrestling history through Peter Maivia, Lia Maivia, and Rocky Johnson, as well as the broader Anoa’i family. Her influence is felt in her grandchildren, like Simone Johnson (Ava), who continue the family tradition. Her life story is a mix of cultural pride, family dedication, and quiet strength that has shaped one of the world’s most famous wrestlers and actors. From her Samoan roots to guiding her son in wrestling and Hollywood, Ata Johnson’s story shows the power of family, culture, and resilience. She remains a quiet yet strong presence, reminding the world that behind every legend is a strong family and a loving mother.
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