Tyrese Gibson Hails Dwayne Johnson's 15-Minute Standing Ovation : 'This Is What Legacy Feels Like'

Dwayne Johnson received a touching tribute at the Venice Film Festival, and Tyrese Gibson couldn't be happier for the Hollywood legend.

The former WWE superstar received a 15-minute standing ovation after debuting his new movie "The Smashing Machine" at the event. The honor reduced him to a sobbing mess as he struggled to contain his emotions amid the crowd's enthusiastic applause.

Tyrese Gibson recently shared a video of the heartfelt moment on social media alongside an impassioned message about his undying love and support for Dwayne Johnson. The two actors have a long history as co-stars in the "Fast & Furious" franchise.

On Tuesday, September 2, Gibson updated his Instagram page with a video of Johnson crying as he received a 15-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. The younger actor raved about how happy he was for Johnson in the post's caption, writing:

"Dwayne-I am soooo very proud of you. No matter how many box-office records you've shattered, this... THIS is what legacy looks like."

Although Gibson hailed Johnson "as the Global Box-Office King," he claimed the older actor's past roles significantly differed from the "depth, courage, and soul" he portrayed as former UFC champion Mark Kerr. Johnson's new movie, "The Smashing Machine," follows the life and struggles of the MMA fighter.

Gibson claimed he could not wait to support Johnson by watching the biopic once it premiered in theaters on October 3, 2025, writing: "I will be right there, witnessing your evolution. You've made your mark-not just with strength and spectacle, but with raw, transformative artistry."

He declared Johnson's light was "shining brighter than ever" and credited him as his inspiration and someone he deeply respected. Additionally, Gibson noted he could not wait to reunite with Johnson on the "Fast & Furious" set, referencing his character Hobbs.

Gibson's post sparked mixed reactions from fans, with some supporting Johnson while others criticized him. "Tyrese, I might cry on this one. He's a legit actor, man, and it was time!" a fan penned. Another agreed, wondering why Johnson hadn't won an Oscar.

The love and support for Johnson continued with a third applauding his stellar achievements. "We Love you, we are so proud of you, not only for what you do in the WWE but all that you have accomplished for movies," the IG user penned.

"This is so heartwarming.... He truly is inspirational," a fellow supporter chimed. More fans echoed similar sentiments, celebrating Johnson's latest achievement while critics slammed him for various reasons. One troll labeled the entertainer "a sellout and [garbage can emoji] human."

Another critic shared a "bald fraud" meme while someone accused Johnson of being a predator. "Your time is up. 'Rock' your elite buddies might let you get away with it, but not God," the individual wrote. Meanwhile, a few teased Johnson for crying, with someone labeling him "a little princess."

The biopic saw Johnson revamping his image to fit Kerr, from his signature muscular build to a leaner, toned frame. He reportedly lowered his weight to 240 lbs from his usual 300 lbs, losing around 60 pounds for the movie.

Besides the dramatic weight loss, Johnson needed facial prosthetics to embody the MMA fighter. Kerr was a two-time UFC Heavyweight Tournament Champion, World Vale Tudo Championship tournament winner, and a Pride FC competitor.

Johnson addresses his transformation to play the sensational character last year, noting that he was at a point in his career where he wanted to challenge himself in new ways. "I want to make films that matter, that explore humanity and explore struggle [and] pain," he declared, per Tyla.

Months before his emotional appearance at the Venice Film Festival, The Blast covered fans' stunned reactions to Johnson's weight loss. His transformation to portray Kerr went viral in April following the release of the biopic trailer.

Many did not believe their eyes, dropping comments like "Wait, that's The Rock? No way!" Others were impressed by his acting skills, applauding him for choosing a new range instead of his typical action genre.

The change resonated with many, who declared Johnson deserved an actor for the biopic. The movie also excited some because it marked the return of Johnson and actress Emily Blunt as co-stars and love interests. They first starred together on Disney's hit "Jungle Cruise."

Will the accolades Dwayne Johnson has received for the biopic increase come October 3?