Andy Baker Wrestling Journey: Meeting Rocky Johnson at OVW and The Rock 10 Years Later

 In an earlier blog post, I talked about how my wrestling journey began as Andy Baker, one of just 50 people chosen from thousands worldwide for a WWE and OVW (Ohio Valley Wrestling) tryout in Louisville, Kentucky, back in February 2003. That once-in-a-lifetime opportunity helped shape my identity as an aspiring professional wrestler and launched me deeper into the world of sports entertainment.

After two intense days of physical and mental challenges at the historic Davis Arena, our group had the rare opportunity to observe the WWE developmental talent class in action. Watching the contract wrestlers cut promos was inspiring, and I’ll never forget when my friend Nikita Le Fleur called me out during hers. She wished me well and complimented my talent in front of the entire class — something that really stuck with me. I had first met Nikita the summer before, while I was training and wrestling at HWA (Heartland Wrestling Association) in Cincinnati, Ohio — another key chapter in my early development.

While waiting around after class, one of the most memorable moments of my career happened. Rocky Johnson, a true wrestling legend and one of the coaches at OVW at the time, walked over and introduced himself. He told me I reminded him of someone and generously shared advice and encouragement. He was kind, grounded, and full of wisdom. As a young athlete trying to make a name for himself in the wrestling world, meeting someone of his stature meant everything.

Almost exactly 10 years later, in January 2013, my wrestling journey brought me to Tampa, Florida, where I was backstage at WWE as an extra talent. By this point, I had already been informed that WWE wanted me to attend an NXT tryout the following month in February. That alone was huge — but what happened next was something I’ll never forget.

As I was heading to catering backstage, I spotted The Rock, Dwayne Johnson, Rocky’s son and one of the biggest global superstars in wrestling history. I didn’t want to interrupt him — especially with signs everywhere saying “Do not ask talent for photos.” With my tryout around the corner, the last thing I wanted was to cause a stir or get heat.

But to my surprise, The Rock turned around and introduced himself to me. He didn’t have to do that. We had a short but meaningful conversation. He had this calm, confident energy — absolutely genuine, no ego, just a great vibe. As someone I had admired for years, meeting The Rock was surreal and humbling.

After the show, I messaged my brother to tell him what had happened. He was thrilled for me. Tragically, he was very ill at the time and passed away just a week later. That moment — sharing that news with him — is one I’ll always cherish.

I do sometimes wish I had asked The Rock for a photo, but I was focused on staying professional. Still, the memory is powerful enough on its own.

Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of what I accomplished as Andy Baker the wrestler. From my roots at OVW in the "big man era" to performing in front of live crowds and sharing locker rooms with legends, I’ve been fortunate to receive praise for both my style and my physical conditioning. That old-school OVW mindset — get in shape, respect the craft, stay hungry — stuck with me.

I’ll always be grateful for the lessons, the friendships, and the unforgettable chapters that helped shape my path in wrestling.

Andy Baker aka Andreas Rossi Former Pro Wrestler

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