Dave Batista

Biography

David Michael Bautista, Jr. (born January 18, 1969) is an American mixed martial artist, bodybuilder, actor, and former professional wrestler, widely recognized by his ring name, Batista. He gained prominence in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), where he became a six-time world champion, securing the World Heavyweight Championship four times and the WWE Championship twice. Batista holds the record for the longest reign as World Heavyweight Champion in WWE history. His accolades also include three World Tag Team Championships and one WWE Tag Team Championship. In 2005, he won the Royal Rumble match and headlined WrestleMania 21, one of the most significant events in professional wrestling. Batista began his wrestling career in 2000 after signing with WWF and competing in its developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling, where he won the OVW Heavyweight Championship. He has since transitioned into acting and mixed martial arts.