David Michael Bautista was born on January 18, 1969 is a former American professional wrestler, bodybuilder and actor best known for his time in World Wrestling Entertainment. In WWE, he became a six-time world champion, winning the World Heavyweight Championship four times, and the WWE Championship two times.
Batista was born the son of David Michael Bautista, who is Filipino and Donna Raye Bautista, who is Greek. His parents separated (and eventually divorced). His paternal grandparents were also from the Philippines as his grandfather served in the military, worked as a taxicab driver, barber, and other jobs to feed the family. Batista says he is not ashamed to admit he lived in poverty.
He has publicly admitted to having a hard life where, as before he was age nine, three murders occurred on his front lawn. As young as age 13, he was stealing automobiles. By age 17, he was considered estranged from his parents and on his own, despite admitting later that “I am proud of my parents. They are good, honest, hard-working folks. They taught me the values of working hard.” Batista became a regular bouncer for clubs until he was arrested after a fight that left two badly injured patrons, one of which could be found lying in the street. After a trial, he was sentenced to one year of probation. He was also a lifeguard before he pursued a career in bodybuilding. He credits bodybuilding as possibly saving his life.
Heavyweight champion, “The Animal” Batista, has expressed interest in mixed martial arts and acting since his contract expired. Since his departure from professional wrestling he has been everywhere.
He has openly told reporters that he left the WWE due to the new direction of the company. He has claimed that another professional wrestling company, TNA wrestling, has offered him a deal. However, he does not believe that they can deliver the same money that WWE gave him.
On June 16, 2010, he attended a Strikeforce MMA event. A week later, he told TMZ.com that he is signing with Strikeforce, but refused to mention who his first opponent would be. Strikeforce later advised that he has not been signed and that they are still in contractual talks with him. The major road blocks at this point has been money and schedule.
His wrestling persona made him a popular character during WWE tours over seas. He walked out to the ring along side fellow countryman, Manny Pacquiao, for his fight against Ricky Hatton. His international celebrity has been established and there is no question he could be a big draw in MMA.
Ana Ivanovic Tennis
