A veteran AEW star has reacted to former WWE colleague Batista sharing proof of his spectacular physical transformation on social media. The Animal has been training for his role in an upcoming adaptation of a globally renowned video game series.
While pro-wrestling has always maintained close ties with other popular forms of visual media, including film and television, a select handful of wrestlers have actually succeeded at developing separate on-screen acting careers outside of the squared circle.
Wrestlers Turned Actors
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, John Cena, CM Punk, and Batista stand out as prime examples of wrestlers who have developed successful acting careers. Top AEW stars like MJF and Samoa Joe have also been exploring similar opportunities.
Last month, it was revealed that Batista had been cast to replace Ryan Hurst for the role of Kratos in Prime Video’s adaptation of the incredibly popular video game series, God of War.
Batista’s Transformation
The former WWE World Heavyweight Champion recently posted a clip on Instagram showing off his physique as he works to get into shape for his part. “3rd week in to weight training again. 2 more months to get to where I need to be. Like ridin[g] a bike! LFG!💪🏽,” posted Batista.
Batista‘s IG post elicited an encouraging and supportive comment from AEW’s MVP, who wrote: “The Animal returns!!!!!”
Batista had shared the squared circle with The Franchise Playa several times when both stars were signed with WWE, and their history in the ring has likely contributed to MVP‘s enthusiasm for Batista‘s new role.
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MVP was missing from AEW All In: London last month, and a subsequent report from Fightful Select clarified that his absence had been attributed to visa issues.
MVP’s Absence
Interestingly, MVP did not accompany his stablemates at Wembley Stadium last Sunday, despite being the group’s official spokesperson and manager. The visa process has changed, according to Fightful Select.
The Hurt Syndicate, led by MVP, had been involved in a business proposition with Shane Taylor Promotions prior to All In: London, which had led to the recruitment of Shelton Benjamin and Bobby Lashley as their hired guns on previous occasions. However, at All In: London, Big Justice and The Rizzler outbid STP, leading to Shelton Benjamin and Bobby Lashley teaming with Big Boom AJ and QT Marshall to defeat Shane Taylor, Lee Moriarty, and The Infantry.
It remains to be seen what lies next for The Hurt Syndicate on AEW programming, but for now, Batista is focused on his upcoming role in the God of War adaptation.
Last month, it was revealed that Batista had been cast to replace Ryan Hurst for the role of Kratos in Prime Video’s adaptation of the incredibly popular video game series, God of War.
The collaboration between the entertainment and gaming industries is becoming increasingly common, with many popular video game series being adapted into film and television productions.
