Simone Johnson, the daughter of wrestling icon Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, has officially retired from professional wrestling. The 24-year-old, who performed under the ring name Ava Raine, made this announcement on January 30, 2026, marking the end of her tenure with WWE, where she had been wrestling since 2020.
Following a Family Legacy in the Ring
Simone carried forward a deep family tradition by becoming the fourth generation to join WWE, continuing the wrestling legacy established by her famous father. Despite this proud heritage, she chose to step away from the sport after a final appearance on NXT earlier that week. She expressed gratitude to her supporters and reflected on her journey in a heartfelt statement.
“Thank you to all who have cheered, watched, and supported me through my journey,”
Simone said, adding,
“While my decision to not renew my contract was very difficult, it’s also a new turning point in my life. It has been an honor and a privilege to be Ava.”
Uncertain Reasons Behind the Retirement
The specific reasons for Simone’s exit from wrestling have not been publicly disclosed. However, the choice to retire has sparked conversation about her future aspirations beyond the ring and the pressures of living up to the family name in such a competitive sport.
Dwayne Johnson Expresses Pride in His Daughter’s Path
Before Simone’s retirement was revealed, her father, Dwayne Johnson, shared his deep pride in her decision to pursue wrestling while forging her own identity. In an emotional interview with MTV UK, he confided, “I’m so proud of her.”
He added,
“I’m so proud because it’s what I did, and I loved what I did, love wrestling. I grew up in wrestling. She was born into it, too, just like I was. And she said, ‘Hey, I want to do what you do.’”
He went on to highlight her determination to create a distinct career, saying,
“I get emotional because she’s like, ‘I want to do what you do but I want to carve my own path.’”
Regarding his role as a parent, Johnson remarked,
“And that’s a difference that was a big deal that I heard that. It gave me a profound sense of pride. I helped, with her mom, raise an amazing human being.”
Looking Ahead Beyond Wrestling
Simone Johnson’s departure from WWE marks a significant moment in her life, signaling a new chapter beyond the wrestling world. Given her passion and family background, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see what endeavors she will pursue next. Her choice to retire underlines a personal journey of self-discovery and growth, separate from the in-ring legacy of her lineage.
