The world of professional wrestling has given way to countless success stories, with many of its most iconic superstars trading in their wrestling boots for Hollywood glamour. One such example is Dave Bautista, better known to wrestling fans as Batista. The former WWE Champion has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, appearing in blockbuster films like Guardians of the Galaxy and its sequels, as well as the DC Extended Universe’s Aquaman and its spin-off, Zack Snyder’s Justice League. But behind the scenes, there’s a claim that’s been brewing, courtesy of D-Von Dudley, one half of the legendary WWE tag team, The Dudley Boyz.
D-Von’s Claim: A Cut of the Action
Speaking on his podcast, Devon & The Duke, D-Von Dudley opened up about his relationship with Batista, highlighting their time as on-screen partners in the WWE. D-Von, in his signature candid style, revealed that he feels Batista owes him a portion of the profits from his Hollywood endeavors. According to D-Von, the duo’s time in the WWE created a bond that transcended their in-ring partnership, and he believes that this connection warrants a financial reward.
“We were more than just tag team partners; we were brothers,” D-Von shared on his podcast. “Our chemistry was undeniable, and it’s something that has stuck with me to this day. If Dave is making a killing in Hollywood, I think it’s only fair that he gives me a little something for my part in helping him get there.”
The Origins of Their Partnership
The Dudley Boyz, consisting of D-Von and his brother Bubba Ray, have been a staple of the WWE since the late 1990s. Their unorthodox style, characterized by high-flying moves and brutal table-smashing techniques, quickly earned them a loyal fan base. Batista, who joined the WWE in 2002, was initially paired with the Dudley Boyz as part of the Triple Threat faction. This alliance not only helped to establish Batista as a top-tier superstar but also laid the groundwork for the long-term friendship between the three men.
A WWE Insider Weighs In
According to a WWE insider, the success of the Dudley Boyz was a crucial factor in Batista’s rise to fame. “D-Von and Bubba Ray were instrumental in Batista’s early career,” the source revealed. “Their guidance and mentorship played a significant role in shaping Batista into the superstar we know today. If anyone deserves a piece of the action, it’s D-Von.”
Batista’s Response: A Diplomatic Silence
At the time of writing, Batista’s representatives have declined to comment on the matter. However, sources close to the actor suggest that he’s choosing to keep a low profile, rather than engage in a public feud with his former tag team partner.
The Aftermath: A Potential WWE Reunion?
While D-Von’s claim may seem lighthearted, it has sparked a renewed interest in the possibility of a WWE reunion between the Dudley Boyz and Batista. With the former being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018 and Batista’s recent return to the WWE as a part of the 2023 Royal Rumble, the timing seems right for a reunion.
“Who knows? Maybe Dave will surprise us all and come crawling back to D-Von with an offer he can’t refuse,” said the WWE insider. “After all, the bond they share is more than just a working relationship – it’s a brotherhood that can’t be broken.”
Conclusion
As the wrestling world continues to evolve, it’s clear that the relationships forged in the ring can have a lasting impact on the lives of its superstars. D-Von Dudley’s claim to a cut of Batista’s Hollywood fortune serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics at play behind the scenes of the WWE. With Batista’s continued success on the big screen and D-Von’s unapologetic approach to his claim, only time will tell if this matter will be resolved in the WWE or in a Hollywood courtroom.