Image via YouTube/WhatCulture Wrestling Professional wrestling, and specifically within WWE, has seen the birth of some of the biggest stars in sports entertainment. While many wrestlers achieve iconic status in the ring, others decide to take their careers in a completely different direction after achieving fame and success. Some move into acting or MMA, while others explore fields far removed from the world of wrestling. Here’s a look at WWE stars who left the squared circle to pursue completely different careers.
1. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – Hollywood superstar and business mogul
The Rock’s Most Iconic Rock Bottoms: WWE Top 10
The Rock’s rise to Hollywood is well known, but his transformation into one of the world’s biggest movie stars is notable. Dwayne Johnson made his WWE debut in 1996 and went on to become one of the most shocking wrestlers in WWE history. However, by the early 2000s, Johnson began turning to acting.
His popularity exploded after appearing in blockbuster movies such as “Fast and Furious” and “Jumanji.” What is less well known is that Johnson’s business ventures were successful. He founded his own production company, Seven Bucks Productions, and launched the Teremana Tequila brand, both of which were hugely successful. Now, Johnson is not only a former wrestler turned actor, but a business tycoon who has built a thriving empire.
2. Dave Bautista – actor, mixed martial artist
Batista Bombs – WWE Top 10
Another WWE star who successfully made the transition to Hollywood is Dave Bautista, who used to wrestle professionally under the name Batista. After debuting in WWE in 2002 and becoming a multiple world champion, Batista tried his hand at acting. He gained mainstream recognition for his role as Drax the Destroyer in the Marvel film Guardians of the Galaxy. While Bautista continues to star in big-budget films like Blade Runner 2049 and Dune, he briefly tried mixed martial arts, winning his only fight in 2012. Bautista has shown his versatility in his career away from wrestling, appearing in everything from action movies to dramas.
3. Trish Stratus – Yoga Studio Owner and Fitness Entrepreneur
Trish Stratus’ 7 Women’s Championship Wins: WWE Milestone
One of the most iconic female wrestlers in WWE history, Trish Stratus left the ring at the peak of her career to pursue a more down-to-earth passion: fitness. Stratas opened a yoga studio called Stratasphere in her hometown of Toronto. The business was very successful and she won multiple awards in the fitness industry. Although Stratus returns to WWE from time to time for special appearances, her main focus remains her fitness empire. She has since expanded her brand into other areas, including wellness products, but remains a symbol of athleticism and entrepreneurship beyond wrestling.
4. Glenn Jacobs (Cain) – Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee
Perhaps one of the most surprising career transitions is that of Glenn Jacobs, better known to wrestling fans as Kane. After a legendary WWE career that saw him become one of the most feared figures in pro wrestling history, Jacobs has completely switched gears.
In 2018, Mr. Jacobs was elected mayor of Knox County, Tennessee. His foray into politics demonstrated his leadership and community-minded spirit. Mr. Jacobs was re-elected as mayor after focusing on local governance, and has proven popular outside of the wrestling arena. His success in politics makes him one of the most unique post-wrestling success stories.
5. AJ Lee – Mental Health Author and Advocate
Paige vs. AJ Lee – Divas Championship Match: RAW, April 7, 2014
AJ Lee (April Janet Mendes) was one of the most popular female stars of her era, making a huge impact during her WWE career and becoming a three-time Divas Champion. After retiring from in-ring competition in 2015, she turned to writing.
Her memoir Crazy Is My Superpower was a New York Times bestseller and helped AJ Lee reinvent himself as a mental health advocate. She frequently speaks about her struggle with bipolar disorder and advocates for mental health awareness. Lee’s post-wrestling career highlights her passion for storytelling and desire to help others.
