Dwayne Johnson Spends His $800 Million Net Worth Gifting UFC Fighter Miami Home, in a Heartwarming Story of Redemption

Today, Dwayne Johnson is one of the highest-paid actors in the world, with a reported net worth of $800 million.

The Rock gifts UFC fighter Miami HomePhoto by@TheRock via YouTube

But, the 51-year-old ex-WWE legend and serial entrepreneur wasn't always so financially fortunate. In 1995, after failing to make it to the NFL and being recently cut from the CFL's Calgary Stampeders, Dwayne felt as though he had hit rock bottom.

In a 2011 "X" (formerly Twitter) post, Dwayne shared this inspirational message,

"In 1995 I had $7 bucks in my pocket and knew two things: I'm broke as hell and one day I won't be."

But, as the backbone of any good redemption story, Dwayne took his rock bottom and used it to propel him to unfounded heights. Something millions of people in the world took inspiration from.

One, in particular, was aspiring MMA fighter, Themba Gorimbo.

Working his way out of the war-torn country of South Africa, stealing blood diamonds to earn enough for basic amenities, Themba eventually earned himself an opportunity to fight for the UFC, losing via submission in the 2nd round.

But, with a do-or-die attitude, Themba came back stronger, winning his 2nd fight against Takashi Sato via decision. But, it's what happened after the fight that went viral. As Thomas Gerbasi writes, for UFC.com,

"Gorimbo revealed that he had only $7.49 in his bank account before he travelled to Las Vegas. He then auctioned off his fight kit, with the proceeds going to build a bush pump in his village in Zimbabwe in order to provide clean water for the people there."

The story went viral, catching the attention of one Dwayne Johnson, who could relate to the story only too well.

Inspired by Themba's struggle and act of selflessness, choosing to give to others at a time of personal need, Dwayne decided to pay Themba a very special visit, flying to Miami to surprise him with a new home.

Initially telling Themba he wanted to introduce him to "someone special", Dwayne handed Themba a set of keys to his new house. In tears, Themba couldn't help but repeat over and over again, "Thank you so much, oh my god, thank you."

In a video sharing the entire experience, On Dwayne's YouTube channel, the now 11-4 fighter then shared how he would pay this act of kindness forward,

"I will tell you now what I'm going to do. Because you got me this house, I was supposed to get a house to come here... I'm going to build another borehole in my village now. When I land in Africa."

In a recent "X" post, Dwayne shared his adoration for Themba's story. And, his intention to pay it forward, with this message:

"You and your family enjoy your new house brother. Lights are on. Bills are paid. Keep your “My Reason” list close, keep taking care of your people and I’m honored to play a very, very small role in your $7 bucks journey. $7 bucks. I’ve been there too. Got your back brother."

Hey, I'm Hudson! I write about social media, marketing, and modern entrepreneurship. Hit follow for more stories like this one.