As far back as the 1940s, wrestlers have been using their charisma to capture audiences’ hearts. Legendary figures such as Gorgeous George, Bruno Sammartino, and Hulk Hogan have all become household names thanks to their iconic performances in the ring.
But what many do not know is that some of these wrestling superstars have also achieved success outside of the sport.
In recent years, a number of wrestlers have made the transition from the ring to Hollywood stardom – appearing in blockbuster movies and TV shows as well as on stage and in music videos. Here are some wrestlers who have become icons in both arenas.
John Cena
The superstar with the “You Can’t See Me” catchphrase, John Cena, is one of the biggest names in wrestling today. Not only was he part of some memorable feuds during his time with WWE. But his transition to Hollywood was just as successful, with in movies such as ” Ferdinand,” “Bumblebee” and “The Suicide Squad.”
He also hosted the 2019 Kids’ Choice Awards.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
No list of wrestling-turned-movie stars would be complete without The Rock. He is one of the most famous wrestlers in history, having won a total of 17 championships during his time with WWE. Following his retirement from wrestling, he transitioned to the big screen and has become one of Hollywood’s biggest action stars.
Some of his notable roles include “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle,” “Rampage,” “Hobbs & Shaw,” and a starring role in DC’s “Black Adam.”
Ronda Rousey
Ronda Rousey began her career as a professional wrestler in 2015, where she quickly gained recognition for her success in the ring. And became known as one of the most dominant female wrestlers ever.
Following her retirement from wrestling, she made the transition to Hollywood and went on to star in films such as “Mile 22”, “Fast & Furious 7”, and “The Expendables 3”.
Thus, these wrestlers have used their charisma and talent to make the transition from the ring to Hollywood. From John Cena to The Rock, they have all become icons in both arenas and will continue to entertain audiences for many years to come.
Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan is often referred to as one of wrestling’s most iconic figures ever. During his time with WWE, he won several championships and was even inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005.
He has also appeared in a number of Hollywood projects, including “Rocky III,” “Mr. Nanny” and “Thunder In Paradise”
Currently, Hulk Hogan is producing television movies for Netflix.
Dave Bautista
Although Dave Bautista has had a long career inside the ring, it’s his role outside of wrestling that has seen him become an international icon. After appearing as Drax in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy movie series, he gained worldwide recognition and opened up several doors for himself.
He is set to star in the upcoming movie “Army of the Dead” as well as a new series on Apple TV+.