From the Ring to the Screen: 5 Pro Athletes Who Became Movie Stars —Which One Surprised You Most?
They started with championships and stadium crowds — ended up in blockbusters.
Hollywood has always welcomed unexpected stars — and sometimes they come not from acting schools, but from the world of sports. Wrestlers, fighters, and athletes have traded the arena for the screen, and many of them found just as much fame in film.
That transformation fascinated me, so I decided to tell you about five of the most striking examples.
Adam Copeland (Edge)
The WWE legend known as Edge traded the wrestling ring for the camera. He landed 25 episodes in Vikings and has several TV projects ahead — proof that charisma works both in the ring and on screen.
Roddy Piper
Piper balanced wrestling and acting like few others. His cult role in They Live gave pop culture one of its most quoted lines: "I came here to chew bubblegum and kick ass…" He also had a memorable turn in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
John Cena
A 16-time WWE world champion, Cena smoothly transitioned into comedy and action. From Fast & Furious to DC’s Peacemaker, he’s built a second career as Hollywood’s go-to powerhouse.
Dwayne Johnson (The Rock)
Once 'The Rock', now one of the world’s highest-paid actors. His movies might divide critics, but audiences make them box office smashes. Upcoming roles with A24 and Scorsese could finally prove his dramatic range.
Dave Bautista
Best known as Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy, Bautista refused to be typecast. He’s trimmed down, taken riskier roles, and appeared in thrillers from Blade Runner 2049 to Knock at the Cabin. His determination makes him one of the most versatile ex-athletes in Hollywood.
