WWE Stars Who Left Wrestling to Pursue a Completely Different Career: Batista, AJ Lee and more

Professional wrestling, particularly within WWE, has created some of the biggest stars in sports entertainment. Many wrestlers achieve iconic status in the ring, but there are those who, after finding fame and success, decide to take their careers in a completely different direction. While some transition to acting or MMA, 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.

While The Rock’s move to Hollywood is well-known, his transformation into one of the biggest movie stars in the world is noteworthy. Dwayne Johnson made his WWE debut in 1996 and became one of the most electrifying wrestlers in the company’s history. By the early 2000s, however, Johnson began transitioning into acting.
He starred in blockbuster movies like Fast & Furious and Jumanji, and his popularity exploded. What’s less known is Johnson’s successful ventures into business. He founded his own production company, Seven Bucks Productions, and launched the Teremana Tequila brand, both of which have been massive successes. Today, Johnson is not just a former wrestler turned actor but a business mogul with a thriving empire.

Another WWE star who successfully transitioned into Hollywood is Dave Bautista, who wrestled under the name Batista. After debuting in WWE in 2002 and becoming a multi-time world champion, Batista ventured into acting. His role as Drax the Destroyer in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy brought him mainstream recognition. While Bautista continues acting in big-budget films like Blade Runner 2049 and Dune, he also pursued MMA briefly, winning his sole fight in 2012. Bautista’s career away from wrestling has showcased his range, with roles in everything from action films to drama.

Trish Stratus, one of the most iconic female wrestlers in WWE history, left the ring at the peak of her career to pursue a more grounded passion—fitness. Stratus opened a yoga studio called Stratusphere in her hometown of Toronto. The business became a tremendous success, earning her multiple awards in the fitness industry. While Stratus occasionally returns to WWE for special appearances, her primary focus remains on 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.

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 characters in wrestling history, Jacobs shifted gears entirely.
In 2018, Jacobs was elected to serve as Knox County, Tennessee's mayor. His foray into politics showcased his leadership and community-minded spirit. As mayor, Jacobs focuses on local governance and has been re-elected, proving his popularity off the wrestling stage. His success in politics makes him one of the most unique post-wrestling success stories.

AJ Lee (April Jeanette Mendez) made a significant impact during her WWE career, being a three-time Divas Champion and one of the most popular female stars of her era. After retiring from in-ring competition in 2015, she turned to writing.
Her memoir, Crazy Is My Superpower, became a New York Times bestseller, and it helped AJ Lee reinvent herself as a mental health advocate. She frequently speaks about her struggles with bipolar disorder and advocates for mental health awareness. Lee’s post-wrestling career highlights her passion for storytelling and her desire to help others.