From the Archives: Andre the Giant, Rocky Johnson take over Spectrum in 1983

Saturday, April 18, 2026 12:22AM ET
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Excitement is building among wrestling fans as WrestleMania - one of the biggest events of the year - returns this weekend.

To get in the spirit, Action News dipped into the archives to highlight a historic match right here in South Philadelphia.

In 1983, wrestling legend Andre the Giant teamed up with Rocky Johnson - the father of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson - for a memorable takeover of the Spectrum.

Action News community journalist Tim Mader has the story.
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