Johnson, currently promoting the live-action "Moana" film set for release on July 10, 2026, paused his departure to examine the magazines. Upon learning they were intended for his mother, and that the fan had brought them specifically for Johnson to take to her, the former WWE Champion expressed his gratitude.
INCREDIBLY COOL gift from an awesome fan - a vintage wrestling magazine with my grandfather on the cover. As you see by his pictures, my grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia was the inspiration behind my character MAUI from MOANA. Thank you Steven I got the best fans in the world!!!
Online reactions to the exchange highlighted the fan's meaningful gesture. Comments included sentiments such as, "That is such a beautiful moment and a lovely thing to do," and "Wow, just think there is not much you can give a celebrity but Steven had something meaningful." Another fan remarked, "This brought a tear to my eyes. [Can't] imagine how cool it is to bring something like that back into the right hands."
High Chief Peter Maivia's Wrestling Legacy
High Chief Peter Maivia, born in Samoa in the 1930s was a significant figure in professional wrestling, particularly in the South Pacific and Hawaii before his career brought him to mainland America in the 1970s. Trained by New Zealand legend Steve Rickard, Maivia achieved numerous championships. He became a dominant force on the West Coast, capturing multiple titles in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Johnson has frequently cited Maivia as the inspiration for the character of Maui in the Disney film "Moana." Johnson has spoken about the profound personal significance of honoring his grandfather's legacy, particularly in relation to the "Moana" project.
Johnson's mother and daughters are also set to appear in "Moana" in scenes depicting the ancestors of the title character. Johnson has emphasized the importance of cultural reverence and authenticity in the film's casting, stating, "I'm so proud because this is what I grew up with here. This is the culture, the value system, the music, and the dancing. It means everything: legacy, life, and pride."
Featured names
- Dwayne Johnson
- Deeply Personal
- Tower Bridge
- Peter Maivia
- Confirms Third
- Favorite Movie
- Steve Rickard
- South Pacific
- San Francisco
- Franchise More
