The New Physique

At the Venice Film Festival, Johnson appeared considerably slimmer, reportedly losing around 60 pounds—dropping from his usual 300 lbs to approximately 240 lbs. This has led to online jokes that he has gone from "The Rock" to "The Pebble." The transformation is not a result of a health crisis but rather a calculated decision for his upcoming film roles and a commitment to longevity.

The Driving Factors Behind the Change

The primary reason for Johnson's physical change is his role in the upcoming biographical drama, The Smashing Machine. In the film, he portrays legendary MMA fighter Mark Kerr, and the role required him to adopt a more authentic, lean, and athletic physique. Johnson stated that he was "hungry" to do something that challenged him beyond the typical blockbuster hero image, expressing a desire to explore more vulnerable and emotionally demanding roles.

In addition to this, he has publicly acknowledged that his diet and workout regimen have shifted to support this new physique.  .His training has moved away from pure bodybuilding and heavy lifting, focusing more on the endurance and agility of a fighter. He has also cited personal digestive health issues as a contributing factor, which he began treating earlier in 2024.

This physical evolution marks a new chapter in Johnson's career, signaling his ambition to take on more diverse and complex characters, potentially aiming for more serious, awards-oriented films.