The WWE is famous for producing acclaimed athletes. Although most of these athletes choose to remain in the squad ring as professional wrestlers, some have made it big in the acting industry. For example, Dwayne Johnson is a successful wrestler who has transitioned into acting. This blog post dives deep into some successful names in the wrestling world who are also actors in movies.
Dave Bautista
David Michael Bautista, a retired American wrestler, successfully transitioned from the wrestling ring to the silver screen. Starting his wrestling career in 1999, Dave Bautista quickly made a name for himself, especially after signing with WWE. His wrestling prowess was solidified in 2005 when he clinched the Heavyweight Championship.
Post his WWE retirement, Dave ventured into acting, where he has not only participated in but also won awards for his roles in various Hollywood films. His filmography includes notable titles such as “My Spy,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Hotel Artemis,” “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2,” and “Stuber.” Among these, Dave Bautista’s role in “Heist” is particularly relevant for casino enthusiasts. In this film, the storyline revolves around a casino setting, a place where many enjoy the thrill of games like blackjack. Interestingly, when engaging in blackjack at an online casino, players might encounter references or themed games inspired by Bautista’s character in “Heist,” bridging the world of cinema and online gambling.
Dwayne Johnson
On the wrestling front, Dwayne Douglas Johnson used to go by the ring name ‘The Rock.’ He is a retired expert wrestler who embraced acting and film production. His illustrious wrestling profession lasted eight years, from 1996 to 2004, before his film-making and acting career was launched.
In film production, Johnson’s movies have grossed more than $3.5 billion in the US and over $10 billion globally. Arguably, Johnson is the world’s highest-grossing and paid actor. He’s an acclaimed actor in various films, including The Mummy Returns, The Scorpion King, The Game Plan, and Race to Witch Mountain. The Mummy Returns was a massive success for Johnson, attracting a $5.5 billion payday.
John Cena
John Cena is a successful American wrestler/actor. He launched his wrestling career in 2000 using ‘The Prototype’ as his ring name. Under WWE, Cena had a shining wrestling career that saw him win over 15 world championships. He assumed many nicknames while pursuing his wrestling career, including ‘The Doctor’ and ‘the Chain Gang.’ Cena has specific signature moves that involve picking up an opponent, gyrating them around, and throwing them down.
While pursuing his wrestling career, Cena started acting. He produced films, including The Marine, 12 Rounds, The Reunion, and The Suicide Squad. He discovered his passion for comedy and appeared in multiple films, such as Trainwreck, Blockers, and Vacation Friends.
Andre Rene Roussimoff
Going by the ring name Andre the Giant, Andre Rene Roussimoff has a successful career in wrestling and acting. He began his career in 1966 after relocating from his country (France) to the US. Although Andrew the Giant had a short stint in theater, it had a huge impact. He acted in films like The Six Million Dollar Man, Conan the Destroyer, and Micki & Maude.
The film industry has some celebrities who started their careers as wrestlers. Most of these actors have succeeded in the film industry, some becoming the greatest of all time (GOAT). Some notable actors who started their careers as wrestlers are explored here.
