Dwayne Johnson obtained a touching tribute on the Venice Movie Competition, and Tyrese Gibson could not be happier for the Hollywood legend.

The previous WWE celebrity obtained a 15-minute standing ovation after debuting his new film “The Smashing Machine” on the occasion. The distinction decreased him to a sobbing mess as he struggled to include his feelings amid the group’s enthusiastic applause.

Tyrese Gibson just lately shared a video of the heartfelt second on social media alongside an impassioned message about his timeless love and assist for Dwayne Johnson. The 2 actors have a protracted historical past as co-stars within the “Quick & Livid” franchise.

On Tuesday, September 2, Gibson up to date his Instagram web page with a video of Johnson crying as he obtained a 15-minute standing ovation on the Venice Movie Competition. The youthful actor raved about how comfortable he was for Johnson within the submit’s caption, writing:

“Dwayne-I am soooo very happy with you. Irrespective of what number of box-office information you have shattered, this… THIS is what legacy appears like.”

Though Gibson hailed Johnson “because the World Field-Workplace King,” he claimed the older actor’s previous roles considerably differed from the “depth, braveness, and soul” he portrayed as former UFC champion Mark Kerr. Johnson’s new film, “The Smashing Machine,” follows the life and struggles of the MMA fighter.

Gibson claimed he couldn’t wait to assist Johnson by watching the biopic as soon as it premiered in theaters on October 3, 2025, writing: “I might be proper there, witnessing your evolution. You have made your mark-not simply with power and spectacle, however with uncooked, transformative artistry.”

He declared Johnson’s mild was “shining brighter than ever” and credited him as his inspiration and somebody he deeply revered. Moreover, Gibson famous he couldn’t wait to reunite with Johnson on the “Quick & Livid” set, referencing his character Hobbs.

Gibson’s submit sparked blended reactions from followers, with some supporting Johnson whereas others criticized him. “Tyrese, I would cry on this one. He is a legit actor, man, and it was time!” a fan penned. One other agreed, questioning why Johnson hadn’t received an Oscar.

The love and assist for Johnson continued with a 3rd applauding his stellar achievements. “We Love you, we’re so happy with you, not just for what you do within the WWE however all that you’ve got completed for motion pictures,” the IG person penned.

“That is so heartwarming…. He really is inspirational,” a fellow supporter chimed. Extra followers echoed related sentiments, celebrating Johnson’s newest achievement whereas critics slammed him for numerous causes. One troll labeled the entertainer “a sellout and [garbage can emoji] human.”

One other critic shared a “bald fraud” meme whereas somebody accused Johnson of being a predator. “Your time is up. ‘Rock’ your elite buddies would possibly allow you to get away with it, however not God,” the person wrote. In the meantime, just a few teased Johnson for crying, with somebody labeling him “slightly princess.”

The biopic noticed Johnson revamping his picture to suit Kerr, from his signature muscular construct to a leaner, toned body. He reportedly lowered his weight to 240 lbs from his typical 300 lbs, dropping round 60 kilos for the film.

Apart from the dramatic weight reduction, Johnson wanted facial prosthetics to embody the MMA fighter. Kerr was a two-time UFC Heavyweight Match Champion, World Vale Tudo Championship event winner, and a Satisfaction FC competitor.

Johnson addresses his transformation to play the sensational character final 12 months, noting that he was at some extent in his profession the place he needed to problem himself in new methods. “I need to make movies that matter, that discover humanity and discover battle [and] ache,” he declared, per Tyla.