While these days Dave Batista is known for his acting chops and trying to get in Dana Brookes pants, it’s important to remember he has had an absolutely legendary career in wrestling. The career will be honored at the next Hall of Fame Ceremony.
Announced alongside the nWo being inducted, no one was surprised to see Batistas name mentioned for the honor. He retired after facing Triple H one final time at last years Wrestlemania. That match capped off his career nicely. It received some praise from fans, and had them wanting more of The Animal.
Batista and His Legacy
There is very little Batista didn’t accomplish in his time in WWE. He is a six time world champion, three time tag team champion. He was also the winner of the 2005 & 2014 Royal Rumbles. While he never claimed the US or Intercontinental Championship, that was because he was often involved too heavily with other title pictures to even consider chasing midcard gold. He main evented two Wrestlemanias, and was victorious at Wrestlemania 21. There he defeated former Evolution partner and mentor Triple H, claiming the first of his world championships.
While he was no technical marvel, Batista was as solid as a powerhouse wrestler could be. He didn’t need fancy flips, just heavy strikes and powerful slams. The Batista Bomb was simple yet awe-inspiring, one of the most iconic versions of the powerbomb.
The honorary speech he will give should be an interesting one, as he had many iconic feuds and matches over his 20 years in wrestling.
Acting Abilities
His larger than life personality has made him one of the most unexpectedly good actors in Hollywood today. His most known role is of Drax The Destroyer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in both Guardians of the Galaxy movies, Avengers: Infinity War & Avengers: End Game. He also appeared in movies such as Blade Runner 2048, Spectre, Riddick, & Hotel Artemis. Those are just a few of the movies he acted in, with his resume still growing with 3 upcoming movies in 2020. Considering he was never that great of a talker in WWE, it was a pleasant surprise to see him shine so bright in Hollywood.
While wrestling retirements are rarely ever final, Batista has done more than enough to cement his legacy. What are some of your favorite moments from his career? Let us know in the comments down below! The Overtimer will keep you updated on the Hall of Fame class of 2020. We’ll be one of the first to let you know if Christian finally gets in!
