The Nation of Domination stands as one of the most memorable, controversial, and ultimately influential factions in the annals of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), particularly defining a significant portion of the Attitude Era. From its provocative beginnings to its evolution into a star-making vehicle, the Nation’s story is one of power, change, and undeniable impact.
The genesis of the WWF’s Nation of Domination began with the crucial repackaging of Ron Simmons. After his initial blue gladiator gimmick was poorly received, Faarooq was repackaged, forming the WWF Nation of Domination in late 1996 as a more serious wrestler, establishing the foundation for the impactful group.
However, the core concept of the faction predated its WWF introduction. The Nation of Domination concept actually started in the Memphis-based USWA promotion before Faarooq brought a new version to the WWF. Notably, WWE Hall of Famer Jacqueline Moore was a member of that original USWA version of the Nation.
Upon its WWF debut, the Nation immediately courted controversy with its presentation. The group’s name, early attire (like kufis/berets), salute, and rhetoric drew heavily from real-world groups like the Nation of Islam and the Black Panther Party for its initial controversial edge, a deliberate choice that made the faction instantly recognizable and provocative.
To articulate the group’s message and manage its affairs, Clarence Mason, the group’s suited advisor, often acted as their initial spokesperson in WWF promos. Under Faarooq’s leadership and Mason’s guidance, the initial ranks were filled. Faarooq’s first WWF recruits were Crush and Savio Vega, both turning heel to join him, alongside manager Clarence Mason, forming a formidable early lineup.
Adding a unique element to the faction’s presentation were the early associates known as PG-13 (J.C. Ice & Wolfie D). More than just hangers-on, Early associates PG-13 (J.C. Ice & Wolfie D) were actual USWA wrestlers signed partly to perform the Nation’s entrance theme live, adding an authentic and distinct auditory layer to their entrances.
As the faction evolved, so did its membership. Ahmed Johnson joined the group in 1997 but he was removed from the group after he suffered an injury, marking a period of transition. Perhaps the most significant addition came later that year: The Rock executed his pivotal heel turn joining the Nation on the August 11, 1997, episode of Raw is War. This moment would prove to be a turning point for both The Rock and the faction itself.
Internal dynamics eventually led to a major shift at the top. The Rock officially seized leadership from Faarooq following weeks of tension on the March 30, 1998, episode of Raw is War. This marked a new era for the Nation, with The Rock’s burgeoning charisma and star power beginning to reshape the group’s identity and direction.
Under The Rock’s leadership, the Nation saw further membership changes. Mark Henry cemented his heel turn and joined the Nation at the Over the Edge: In Your House PPV in May 1998 by betraying his partner Ken Shamrock against Rock & D’Lo. Later that year, another prominent name was added: Owen Hart joined the Nation in 1998 and was a member until the group dissolved a few months later.
During this period, The Nation was a key player in the WWF’s often chaotic ‘Gang Wars’ storyline against factions led by fired original members Crush (DOA) and Savio Vega (Los Boricuas), showcasing their prominence in major WWF narratives.
Individual members also began to achieve significant success while part of, or leading, the Nation. The Rock captured his first Intercontinental Championship (via forfeit from Steve Austin, who stunned him and threw the belt at him) while leading the Nation. Meanwhile, D’Lo Brown won the European Championship twice as a Nation member, first defeating Triple H in July 1998, making him famously recognized from ‘different parts of Europe.’ Other members also found their footing, as Kama Mustafa began developing his popular ‘Godfather’ persona, including distinct attire and mannerisms, while still an active Nation member. D’Lo Brown himself evolved from an unnamed entourage member to a key player, eventually becoming known for his signature head waggle and protective chest gear (explained in storyline).
As The Rock’s trajectory towards superstardom became undeniable and Mark Henry also focused on his singles path, the Nation’s active representation began to wane. After Rock & Henry focused on their singles paths, D’Lo Brown & The Godfather were the last duo actively representing the Nation. Despite its eventual dissolution, the faction’s importance is undisputed.
The Nation of Domination is remembered as a faction pivotal in launching multiple Hall of Fame careers. It served as a crucial launchpad, helping significantly elevate the subsequent singles careers of The Rock, Mark Henry, The Godfather, D’Lo Brown, and furthering Ron Simmons’ (Faarooq) legendary status. Its journey from a controversial, militantly-inspired group to a vehicle for future main eventers solidifies its place in wrestling history.
Match/Segment Results & Key Mentions
- USWA: Nation of Domination concept originated; Jacqueline Moore was a member.
- WWF (Late 1996): Faarooq repackaged, forms Nation of Domination.
- Initial recruits: Crush, Savio Vega.
- Initial spokesperson: Clarence Mason.
- Musical performers: PG-13.
- WWF Raw is War – August 11, 1997: The Rock executes heel turn and joins the Nation of Domination.
- WWF (1997): Ahmed Johnson joins Nation, later removed due to injury.
- WWF Raw is War – March 30, 1998: The Rock seizes leadership of the Nation of Domination from Faarooq.
- WWF Over the Edge: In Your House (PPV) – May 1998: Mark Henry joins the Nation by betraying Ken Shamrock in a match against The Rock & D’Lo Brown.
- WWF (1998): Owen Hart joins the Nation of Domination.
- WWF (While Leading the Nation): The Rock wins his first Intercontinental Championship (via forfeit from Steve Austin).
- WWF (July 1998): D’Lo Brown defeats Triple H to win his first of two European Championships as a Nation member.
- WWF (While in Nation): Kama Mustafa begins developing “The Godfather” persona.
- WWF (Post-Rock/Henry singles focus): D’Lo Brown & The Godfather are the last active duo representing the Nation.
- WWF Storyline: Nation of Domination was a key player in the “Gang Wars” storyline against factions like DOA (led by Crush) and Los Boricuas (led by Savio Vega).
