WWE is the world’s most prominent professional wrestling league, producing wrestling stars as famous as The Undertaker or Rey Mysterio. More than traditional wrestling, what WWE offers is pure entertainment, making it clear that nothing is above the spectacle, and their goal is to entertain their audience.
Perhaps that’s why many wrestlers who succeed in WWE end up making their way to Hollywood; since movies, especially action films, often incorporate many of the same elements found in professional wrestling. But who are the most popular wrestlers who have made it to the big screen? Let’s introduce you to the most famous ones.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
When it comes to WWE wrestlers who have succeeded in the film industry, the first name that often comes to mind is Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The Rock is one of the most notable examples of success in both industries. He began his career in WWE in the 1990s and quickly became one of the most recognizable faces in the company. His charisma and microphone skills catapulted him to the top, and his success in the ring led him to explore new opportunities outside of wrestling.
The Rock’s transition to film began with roles in movies like “The Scorpion King” and “The Mummy Returns.” However, it was in the successful “Fast & Furious” franchise where he truly took off as an actor. His character, Luke Hobbs, became an integral part of the series, and it gave The Rock an even broader fan base.
Since then, he has starred in numerous successful films, including “Jumanji,” “Black Adam,” and “Rampage.” He has become one of the highest-paid and most popular stars in Hollywood. The Rock’s ability to blend action with comedy has made him one of the most versatile actors to come from WWE.
Dave Bautista
Another WWE wrestler who has had a significant impact on the film industry in recent years is Dave Bautista, known in the ring as “Batista.” Like The Rock, Batista began exploring opportunities in acting after his success in WWE. His most prominent role to date has been in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where he portrays Drax the Destroyer in “Guardians of the Galaxy.”
Batista’s performance in “Guardians of the Galaxy” was praised for its humor, and his ability to balance action and comedy made him stand out in the industry. He reprised his role in “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame,” but his career has extended beyond Marvel.
In addition to his work with Disney, Batista has appeared in other successful films such as “Blade Runner 2049,” “Dune,” and “My Spy.” His versatility as an actor and his imposing physical presence have made him a valuable asset in the film industry.
John Cena
John Cena is another WWE wrestler who has successfully transitioned to the world of film. Known for his charisma and his “Never Give Up” motto in the wrestling ring, Cena has been appearing in blockbuster movies in recent years that take him beyond the wrestling arena.
One of Cena’s standout films is “Bumblebee,” part of the Transformers franchise. His performance was praised, showing that he had what it takes to star in a big-budget movie. But where Cena has truly excelled is in “The Suicide Squad,” a film that led to his own series on HBO Max: “Peacemaker.”
Once again, his versatility in blending comedy and action has allowed him to build a solid Hollywood career, even appearing in “Barbie” and playing a significant role in the latest Fast & Furious franchise films, where he shares the screen with his fellow WWE alum, The Rock.
Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan is one of the most recognizable names in the history of professional wrestling, but he has also made an impact in the world of film. Throughout his wrestling career, Hogan became an icon in the wrestling world, known for his charisma and a legion of fans.
His foray into film began with “No Holds Barred,” a movie that capitalized on his wrestling fame and portrayed him as a wrestler who takes on a villain in a brutal fight. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, “No Holds Barred” solidified Hogan as an action star in the film industry, although his subsequent film career didn’t fare as well.
Kane
Kane, known for his masked monster persona in WWE, has ventured into acting in movies and television series. He portrayed his alter ego, Glenn Jacobs, in “See No Evil,” where he played a serial killer terrorizing a group of young delinquents. While his foray into film hasn’t reached the same prominence as some other wrestlers, Kane has demonstrated his versatility as an actor by taking on chilling roles that align with his wrestling character.
Randy Orton
Randy Orton, known as “The Viper” in WWE due to his unpredictable and dangerous style, has also ventured into the world of film. He has appeared in movies like “12 Rounds 2: Reloaded” and “The Condemned 2,” following in the footsteps of other wrestlers who have transitioned into action films. While his acting career is still developing, Orton has shown his ability to take on roles in this genre, although he tends to fit well as a villain.
Triple H
Triple H, also known as “The Game,” has also made a successful transition to the film industry. During his career in WWE, he stood out as one of the most successful and versatile wrestlers. His acting debut came in the movie “Blade: Trinity,” where he played Jarko Grimwood, a deadly vampire. Since then, Triple H has continued to make occasional appearances in movies, although not with the same level of success as some of his counterparts.
