It’s one of the most iconic celebrity photos on the internet: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in a black turtleneck, gold chain, dad-level fanny pack, and a carefully posed expression that launched thousands of memes. The Rock turtleneck look has become a legendary meme template. But now, in a candid new reveal, Johnson has opened up about the moment that snapshot was taken—and the story behind the pose that became an online legend.

Taking to social media in a heartfelt video, Johnson discussed how the now-famous photo of him wearing “The Rock Turtleneck” came to be—and how it captures a defining moment in his early years.

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🧍‍♂️ The Origin Story of the Photo

“Always grateful for the lessons, blood, sweat and grind. And fanny packs,” he captioned the post—a nod to his humble beginnings and some very 1990s fashion choices.

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In the video, Johnson reminisced:

“Black turtleneck, fake Tag watch, fanny pack, tissue underneath the elbow ‘cause I didn’t wanna get my turtleneck dirty. Crazy sh*t—and that picture went on to become iconic.”

The photo, taken before a wrestling match early in his career, was never meant to go viral. Yet decades later, with “The Rock Turtleneck” photo leading the charge, it has achieved cult status across social media. It’s been turned into memes, Halloween costumes, and even action figures. The legendary turtleneck photo is treasured by fans everywhere.

The image captured more than just a look—it reflected the mindset of a hungry young performer on the cusp of transformation.

Long before he became a global superstar, Dwayne Johnson’s life was anything but glamorous. Born into a wrestling family, Johnson moved frequently and endured financial struggles growing up. He often speaks about having just $7 in his pocket after being cut from the Canadian Football League—a moment that inspired the name of his production company, Seven Bucks Productions. That drive to rebuild from rock bottom formed the foundation of his rise.

From training in makeshift gyms to wrestling in small arenas for little money, Johnson’s climb to fame was forged through resilience. The iconic black turtleneck photo stands as a frozen frame in time—an image of a man fueled by ambition, preparing to take on the world.

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💼 From Wrestling Ring to Global Enterprise

Dwayne Johnson’s transformation from wrestler to entertainment mogul is one of the most impressive in modern celebrity culture. Following his meteoric rise in the WWE, he transitioned seamlessly into Hollywood, becoming one of the highest-grossing actors of all time while the turtleneck style continued to follow him, especially “The Rock Turtleneck” phenomenon.

But his ambitions didn’t stop with the silver screen.

Today, Johnson helms several successful ventures:

• Seven Bucks Productions – His film and television production company, which has produced hits like Jumanji, Young Rock, and Red Notice.
• Teremana Tequila – A top-selling, ultra-premium tequila brand that reflects his commitment to quality and authenticity.
• Under Armour x Project Rock – A bestselling fitness apparel and gear line inspiring millions to pursue strength and purpose.
• Athleticon – A wellness and fitness expo blending fitness, film, and personal development.

Each of these ventures showcases Johnson’s brand: driven, motivational, and purpose-led. He has positioned himself not just as an entertainer but as a global brand architect.

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🎬 A Hollywood Powerhouse

Johnson’s Hollywood résumé is stacked with blockbusters, and his versatility across genres—action, comedy, family, and even animation—has made him a household name with the iconic turtleneck look ever in mind, reminiscent of “The Rock Turtleneck.”

Notable films include:

• The Scorpion King (2002) – His breakout role in cinema
• Fast & Furious series – As Hobbs, a fan-favourite character
• Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and Jumanji: The Next Level – Massive box office hits
• Moana – Lending his voice to Maui in Disney’s critically acclaimed animated musical
• Black Adam – His long-awaited superhero debut in the DC Universe

With upcoming projects constantly in development, Johnson shows no signs of slowing down.

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🔥 From Meme to Motivation

Johnson’s ability to take a light-hearted jab at himself while reflecting on how far he’s come is a big part of why he remains so relatable and admired. What started as a fashion faux pas of wearing “The Rock Turtleneck” has become a symbol of authenticity, confidence, and growth.

Whether it’s a meme-worthy photo, a blockbuster role or a business empire, The Rock continues to build a legacy rooted in grit and humour. The turtleneck wasn’t just a style choice—it was a moment of character. And like everything he touches, it’s iconic.

NLE Choppa, born Bryson LaShun Potts on 1 November 2002, is 22 years old as of 2025. When considering NLE Choppa’s age, it’s remarkable how he has become a cultural force at such a young age. While the world knows him for platinum-certified singles and viral freestyles, Choppa has emerged as a cultural force whose impact extends far beyond music. From topping Billboard charts to launching a children’s book, he’s a symbol of Memphis pride and a new breed of artist reshaping the future of hip-hop.

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🎤 Who Is NLE Choppa?

NLE Choppa is a rapper, songwriter, entrepreneur, and youth role model from Memphis, Tennessee. He first burst onto the global stage in 2019 with the explosive single “Shotta Flow”, which:

• Earned Platinum certification by the RIAA
• Peaked in the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100

This instant success was followed by the release of his debut EP, Cottonwood, in December 2019. Remarkably, NLE Choppa’s age at that time was just 17, showcasing a talent that defies his years. He signed to Warner Records, releasing his first studio album Top Shotta (2020), which landed in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200.

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📀 Major Releases and Chart Performance

Year	Title	Type	Notable Tracks
2019	Cottonwood	EP	“Shotta Flow”
2020	Top Shotta	Album	“Camelot”, “Walk Em Down” (ft. Roddy Ricch)
2020	From Dark to Light	Mixtape	Introspective, conscious content
2022	Me vs. Me	Mixtape	Viral hits and lyricism
2023	Cottonwood 2	Album	“Slut Me Out” Remix (ft. Sexyy Red)

These releases highlight Choppa’s growth—from viral trap anthems to introspective records aimed at elevating minds. Throughout his musical journey, considering NLE Choppa’s age, each project reflects his evolution as both an artist and influencer.

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📚 A New Chapter: Children’s Book Author

At just 22, NLE Choppa is now entering a new phase of influence as the author of a children’s book. Titled “Cricket Stop Cricking”, the book is set to launch in August 2025, coinciding with the back-to-school season.

Speaking to FOX13 Memphis during a reading at Porter-Leath, a local children’s charity, Choppa said:

“Children’s books carry messages so clearly. This book teaches kids to be kind and to pay attention to signs—sometimes those are messages from God.”

Key Themes of the Book:

• Kindness
• Humility
• Recognising divine signs
• Emotional literacy

The book was inspired during a spontaneous studio session and aims to inspire Memphis children to love learning and stay grounded.

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🧠 Beyond Music: Cultural & Social Impact

Choppa’s actions reflect a consistent message: success doesn’t mean forgetting your roots. His achievements at such a young age, given NLE Choppa’s age, show how his influence stretches far beyond music.

“I’ve had success outside my personal life, but I always come back to Memphis to be a humble influence,” he said.

His decision to author a book for young minds represents a rare pivot for a mainstream rapper, and one that positions him as an artist of substance and sustainability.

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📌 Quick Facts at a Glance

• Full Name: Bryson LaShun Potts
• Stage Name: NLE Choppa
• Date of Birth: 1 November 2002
• Age: 22 (as of 2025)
• Origin: Memphis, Tennessee
• Debut Hit: “Shotta Flow” (2019)
• Book Launch: “Cricket Stop Cricking” (August 2025)

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Final Word: NLE Choppa’s Evolution at 22

Still just 22 years old, NLE Choppa is the embodiment of modern influence. He is a young king balancing fame with purpose—chart success with community impact.

Whether through music, books, or hometown outreach, he’s shaping a future where rap stars are educators, not just entertainers.

Dubai isn’t just a hotspot for luxury shopping and sky-high architecture — it’s a magnet for global celebrities. Celebrities spotted in Dubai range from Hollywood A-listers and chart-topping musicians to sports legends and fashion icons. Dubai 2025 has already seen an impressive list of stars living it up in the city.

This article is your definitive look at the celebrities spotted in Dubai in 2025 so far — where they went, what they wore, and why Dubai remains the celebrity playground of the Middle East.

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👀 January to May 2025: Who’s Been Seen Where?

Cristiano Ronaldo

• ⚽ Spotted training at a private facility in Al Barari
• 📸 Seen touring Expo City Dubai, specifically the Sustainability Pavilion
• 🔥 Shared a post that reached over 30 million views

Kylie Jenner

• 💄 Spotted at Level Shoes, Dubai Mall in January 2025
• 🏨 Stayed at Atlantis The Royal
• 👛 Created viral TikTok content that sparked the “Kylie in Dubai” trend

Kevin Hart

• 🍽️ Dined at Nobu Dubai
• 🤝 Reportedly in talks to bring his Laugh Out Loud comedy brand to the UAE
• 🕶️ Shared a selfie with Dubai Marina skyline in the background

Naomi Campbell

• 🚤 Guest at the Dubai International Boat Show
• 👗 Attended a private fashion yacht event hosted by a French couture label

Lewis Hamilton

• 🏁 Joined Naomi Campbell at Dubai Harbour during Boat Show 2025
• 📷 Posted a behind-the-scenes look at an exclusive car showcase

Jack Harlow

• 🎧 Threw a surprise set at White Dubai during a private Nike party
• 🏙️ Later posted city views from Address Sky View

Idris Elba & Sabrina Dhowre Elba

• 🎨 Attended Art Dubai 2025
• 🗣️ Participated in a panel on African art and culture
• 🥂 Seen at a private event at Alserkal Avenue

DaBaby

• 🎤 Performed live at Soho Garden
• 🛍️ Spotted shopping in City Walk and later filming near Dubai Canal

Mary J. Blige (Pre-Show Week)

• 🎶 Touched down a week before her concert in June
• 💎 Sighted at The Dubai EDITION and dining at CÉ LA VI

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📸 Most Viral Celebrity Moments of 2025 (So Far)

Celebrity	Location	Viral Moment
Kylie Jenner	Atlantis The Royal	“Midnight in Dubai” TikTok — 6M+ views
Cristiano Ronaldo	Expo City Dubai	IG Story tour — 30M views in 24 hours
DaBaby	Soho Garden	On-stage clip — 4.1M TikTok views
Jack Harlow	White Dubai	IG post: “White Dubai went nuts” — 1.8M likes
Naomi Campbell	Dubai Harbour	BTS video on luxury yacht — 900K views

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🧭 Why Celebrities Choose Dubai (Over and Over Again)

Dubai isn’t just another glamorous destination — it’s uniquely suited to high-profile visits because:

• ✈️ Easy global access from US, UK, Europe & Asia
• 🏨 Unmatched luxury experiences (Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Royal, One&Only)
• 💰 Tax-free shopping and VIP concierge hospitality
• 🛥️ Private, secure venues for events, yacht parties, and brand launches
• 📲 Social media goldmine for stars looking to go viral

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🕵️‍♀️ How to Spot a Celeb in Dubai

If you’re in town and hoping to catch a glimpse of fame, your best bets are:

• Dubai Mall VIP entrances (especially Level Shoes and Fashion Avenue)
• Atlantis The Royal & Bulgari Resort — known celeb favourites
• Zuma, CÉ LA VI, Gaia & Nobu — hotspots for unannounced celebrity diners
• Art Dubai, Fashion Forward, and Boat Show — regular celeb haunts
• Dubai Airport First Class Lounges — where the A-listers pass quietly

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🔮 Celebs Rumoured to Visit Dubai Later in 2025

These names aren’t confirmed yet — but chatter from fashion insiders and venue teams suggests:

• Rihanna — for a Fenty x Sephora activation
• Post Malone — linked to NYE headline rumour
• Zendaya — expected during Fashion Forward Dubai
• Bad Bunny — potentially launching a Latinx mini-festival

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✅ Final Word: Dubai Remains the Global Stage

From sneak peeks at new launches to surprise sets and iconic photo ops, 2025 has cemented Dubai as a cultural crossroads for the rich, famous and ultra-visible.

And we’re only just getting started.

This list will be updated throughout the year as new celebrities land, dine, perform and party their way through Dubai.

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