5 stars who quit WWE to pursue mainstream careers
The majority of stars who end up in WWE claim it had always been a dream to wrestle for the company. From Bayley to Austin Theory to Roxanne Perez to many other current stars, getting to World Wrestling Entertainment is their life's ambition.
While becoming a professional wrestler is a dream for many performers, it can sometimes lead to other opportunities. Some may forgo the ring to preserve their bodies, while others may simply use the platform as a stepping stone to bigger things.
The world's biggest wrestling promotion can serve as a home for some stars looking for a lengthy wrestling career.
However, others have used it as a launching point to bigger success. The next five stars quit WWE to pursue mainstream careers in various fields.
#5. Samantha Irvin is the latest to leave WWE
Samantha Irvin's departure in October took almost everyone off guard. Long the voice of RAW, Irvin had become one of the most beloved and respected announcers in WWE history.
She brought life to the names she announced instead of simply saying the words. Several top stars, including Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and Jey Uso, acknowledged Irvin for her skills.
Irvin decided to leave because she wanted to do more than just announce. She sang from time to time in WWE, including the American National Anthem at this year's Money in the Bank. She did the same in October for an NFL game between the Las Vegas Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers.
#4. Stacy Keibler thrived in the Attitude Era
The leggy blonde initially made her mark as a member of WCW. When the company folded, she moved to WWE and became a staple in the women's division.
That division favored looks over in-ring ability, so Keibler didn't need to learn many holds. After a few years with the Dudley Boys, Test, and others, she appeared on Dancing With the Stars.
Following her appearance on the reality show, she left the company to pursue an acting career. While it never materialized, Keibler has stayed in the mainstream, even dating George Clooney at one point.
#3. Batista was a part of the vaunted 2004 OVW Class
The Animal Batista debuted in the same OVW class as Brock Lesnar, John Cena, and Randy Orton. He had success with Evolution and as a top WWE star. His feuds with Triple H, Cena, and others carried SmackDown for a few years.
As the company shifted to more of a PG product, Batista famously "quit" in 2010. He returned last decade, winning the 2014 Royal Rumble to the dismay of many. The Animal also joined Evolution for a feud against The Shield.
Even before departing, The Animal secured many acting roles. He made a big splash as Drax in Marvel's The Guardians of the Galaxy and has been successful in Hollywood despite not needing to be the leading star in every one of his movies.
#2. Sasha Banks (a.ka. Mercedes Mone) was a member of the Horsewomen of NXT
While Batista quit WWE and was written off TV via storyline, Sasha Banks (now known as Mercedes Mone) famously quit the company in 2022 due to rumored creative frustrations. The move included Naomi, who has since returned to the company.
Banks had aspirations in Hollywood, landing a small role in Disney's The Mandalorian series. The former multi-time Champion was then injured while moving to New Japan Pro-Wrestling for sporadic appearances.
Once healthy, she continued to appear on the Mandalorian before inking a deal with AEW. Mone currently holds both the TBS and Strong Women's Titles.
#1. The Rock has ruled in two realms of entertainment
Without The Rock's ascent in the mid to late 1990s, The Bloodline saga may not be dominating pro wrestling today.
Along with Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Undertaker, Triple H, and Mick Foley, The People's Champion led the company during the Attitude Era. After eight years atop WWE, The Rock left in 2004 to pursue acting full-time. Stars who excel in promos often have the easiest transition to the movie screen.
Following a part in The Mummy Returns, The Rock started what would be one of the most lucrative acting careers in history. He's made returns every few years but stopped being an active full-time star in 2004.