Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson isn’t just another high-profile fan in the stands when it comes to Miami football - he’s family. And on the eve of the national championship game, that bond came to life in a heartfelt message from the former Hurricane to his old teammate, Miami head coach Mario Cristobal.
“I’m so proud of you,” Johnson said in a video message to Cristobal, a moment that resonated far beyond nostalgia. With Miami set to face off against Indiana under the lights at Hard Rock Stadium on Monday night, Johnson reminded Cristobal that “the world would be watching.” And make no mistake - for Johnson, this one’s personal.
Back in 1991, Johnson was a defensive tackle on Miami’s national championship squad. Cristobal, then an anchor on the offensive line, shared the locker room and the grind with him. Now, more than 30 years later, Johnson is expected to be in the building once again - not in pads this time, but possibly on the sideline to witness his former teammate chase a national title of his own, this time as a head coach.
And Johnson’s support goes well beyond words. His $1 million donation helped fuel major upgrades to Miami’s football facilities, including the team’s home locker room at Hard Rock Stadium - which now bears his name: the Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Locker Room.
It’s a symbolic and very real reminder of the program’s storied past and enduring swagger. In fact, Indiana players will walk through that very space en route to the field Monday night - a subtle but powerful nod to the legacy they’re up against.
This title game paints a compelling picture of contrast. On one side, Miami - a program with deep NIL resources, a pipeline to elite talent, and the kind of celebrity backing that few can rival. On the other, Indiana - undefeated, gritty, and riding the momentum of a dream season built on development, culture, and the leadership of Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza and head coach Curt Cignetti.
Indiana’s not without its own star power. Mark Cuban, the billionaire entrepreneur and proud Indiana alum, has become one of the most vocal supporters of the Hoosiers’ historic run. His presence has helped elevate Indiana’s profile, but the underdog identity remains central to what’s made this team special.
Still, for Johnson, this night is about more than football. It’s about legacy.
It’s about seeing a teammate-turned-coach lead the program they once bled for, back to the mountaintop. Miami hasn’t won a national title in 25 years.
Monday night is a shot at redemption, restoration, and a return to the swagger that once made “The U” the most feared name in college football.
And with the world watching - just like Johnson said - Miami has a chance to turn the page and write a new chapter in its championship story.