Dave Bautista once fought in MMA before pursuing a Hollywood career after leaving WWE

Apart from his remarkable career in WWE, Batista also pursued his career in MMA and Hollywood and achieved much success.

Dave Bautista once fought in MMA before pursuing a Hollywood career after leaving WWE

Dave Bautista as CES MMA (via Wikimedia Commons)

WWE veteran Dave Bautista, a.k.a. Batista, had a remarkable career in WWE, being multiple times world champion. He was praised for his in-ring skills, killer physique and athleticism throughout his career. Having all the credentials to become a real fighter, he joined MMA after his departure from the company in 2010.

Batista always had an interest in competing professionally in MMA because of his passion for the sport. Originally, Dave wanted to work with Strikeforce promotion but changed his mind when UFC bought it in 2011. The Deacon joined CES MMA at the age of 43 in 2012. He has spent quite some time there.

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Batista was originally set to debut against Rashid Evans at CES MMA: Real Pain in Providence, Rhode Island. But Evans had to withdraw after violating the terms of his probation. Vince Lucero then replaced Rashid and competed against Dave in the heavyweight division.

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The former WWE superstar didn’t start that well against Lucero, who already had momentum with his prior two-fight win streak. Vince’s experience helped him get the upper hand earlier. As Dave Bautista got into rhythm, he went on to dominate the rest of the fight. Dave put him down with a TKO, eventually ending the fight.

Batista then shifted gears away from MMA to continue his acting career. It turns out he has made it into the industry after being part of the MCU’s various movies. The 54-year-old walked in the footsteps of fellow wrestlers like John Cena and The Rock. They did the same while switching careers from WWE to Hollywood.

Related: “Damn you have hair? ” Fans stunned as Batista shares latest pictures rocking a completely new look

WWE sent a profound message to Dave Bautista

Dave Bautista as Drax
Dave Bautista as Drax (via The SportsRush)

WWE superstar Batista has retired from pro wrestling to pursue his acting career. He hung up his boots after his last match at WrestleMania 35. The Animal competed against The Game Triple H in a “No Holds Barred Match.” Although he faced defeat against The Cerebral Assassin, Dave capitalized on being a successful actor ever after.

Batista had been in the MCU’s Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, playing the role of fan favorite Drax. The franchise came to an end with the release of the third movie in the trilogy. Moreover, Volume 3 of the franchise came up as the #1 movie worldwide. WWE congratulated their own Batista on being a part of the phenomenon.

WWE tweeted a picture on their handle showcasing the movie’s poster besides Batista. They praised the former champion for his grand success. The caption also added a heartfelt message saying, “We all miss you!” with the emoji of tears holding back. Even years after his departure, the WWE Universe still feels Batista’s absence.

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