During his run in WWE as a professional wrestler, many would have probably scoffed at the idea of Dave Bautista rising in Hollywood as one of film’s most popular stars. But that’s exactly what has happened in the years since Bautista focused his efforts on acting after leaving the wrestling ring. The now-retired grappler has since impressed fans and critics with his performances from James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy movies to his recent role in the Rian Johnson sequel Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.

In a new interview with GQ, reflected on his success as a Hollywood star. In some ways, as a former WWE champ who found even greater accolades in film, Bautista’s trajectory can be compared to that of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. But while Johnson appeared in some regrettable roles earlier on in his career, Bautista consciously wanted to be more careful with his roles, as he didn’t want to be seen as a Rock wannabe.

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Another pro wrestler who has appeared in movies, albeit not to the extent of The Rock, was there to give some helpful advice to Bautista in the beginning. When Bautista announced his exit from wrestling to pursue acting, WWE legend “Stone Cold” Steve Austin told him to resist the urge to take good money or bad projects, as it would pay off in the long run.

Dave Bautista Is Finished Playing Drax

     Marvel Studios

While Bautista first appeared in movies like The Man with the Iron Fists and Riddick, his breakthrough role was as Drax in James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy. His take on the character was a hit with fans, resulting in Bautista coming back to reprise the part in many films in the MCU. While Drax played its part in Bautista’s ascent in Hollywood, he now feels that it’s time to move on from the character, as he also confirmed that he’s finished playing Drax following the upcoming release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

You can catch Bautista in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 on May 5, 2023, though he can first be seen in M. Night Shyamalan’s Knock at the Cabin, which hits theaters on Feb. 3, 2023. Bautista will also appear in Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming sequel Dune: Part Two, hitting the big screen on Nov. 3, 2023.