Among the most notable WWE Superstars turned Hollywood actors, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, John Cena, and Batista have all achieved significant fame. Recently, during a promotional interview for the film The Smashing Machine, The Rock was asked who among the three is the best actor, and he nearly disclosed his perspective. This moment raised interest, especially regarding the ongoing discussion about who holds the title of John Cena best actor.
The WWE Legacy Leading to Hollywood Stardom
WWE legends such as Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, Jesse Ventura, and Roddy Piper set the foundation for wrestlers transitioning into successful acting careers. The Rock left his wrestling career at its peak to establish himself as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and bankable stars. Meanwhile, John Cena and Batista followed a slightly different route, carving out their niches mainly through roles in superhero films and action blockbusters.
An Interview Sparks Debate Over Acting Prowess
During the promotion of The Smashing Machine, interviewer Dujon Anderson posed a direct question to Dwayne Johnson about who between The Rock, Cena, and Batista excels the most in acting. Anderson interrupted Johnson with his signature line, “It doesn’t matter,” echoing The Rock’s famous catchphrase, deflecting the question initially. Later in the conversation, Johnson turned the tables by playfully questioning Anderson before reasserting his catchphrase.
This exchange left fans wondering who truly holds the edge in acting among these wrestling stars. Industry critics and fans have their own rankings. For instance, The Hollywood Reporter placed Batista at the top due to his versatile performances spanning comedy and drama. The Rock ranked second, in part because of the critical acclaim he received for portraying UFC fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, a role that drew Oscar buzz. John Cena was listed third, noted for his strong performances in action and comedic roles, including praise for his lead in the TV series Peacemaker.
The Rock’s Challenge in Serious Acting Roles
Though widely celebrated as an action star, Dwayne Johnson faced significant self-doubt when he took on the complex role of Mark Kerr, a UFC legend, in The Smashing Machine. During a discussion with CBS News’ Tracy Smith, Johnson shared the internal conflict he experienced, stepping out of his established comfort zone to pursue more serious acting opportunities.
“I was chasing something for a lot of years, and what I was chasing was box office. And there’s a part of me, the brain (that goes), ‘Don’t rock the boat. Stay in this zone. Everyone’s happy. You’re paying the bills.’ But the heart is like, ‘Yeah. But you’re not being fulfilled,'” Rocky said.
— The Rock, Actor and Former WWE Superstar
This candid reflection highlights how Johnson prioritized personal growth over guaranteed commercial success. His risk paid off as critics lauded his portrayal of Kerr. Moreover, Johnson is expanding his dramatic repertoire with an upcoming film directed by Martin Scorsese, starring alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Emily Blunt, signaling a significant step forward in his acting career.
Comparing the Acting Trajectories of John Cena and Batista
While The Rock has gained acclaim for broadening his range, John Cena’s work has predominantly been in action and comedy genres. His starring role as Peacemaker in the eponymous television series received widespread praise for blending humor with intensity, solidifying his place as a capable actor. Batista, meanwhile, has been recognized for his ability to handle diverse roles that span from lighthearted comedies to intense dramas, contributing to his reputation as the most versatile among the three.
The Broader WWE-to-Hollywood Impact and Future Prospects
The journeys of these WWE stars underscore the evolving relationship between professional wrestling and the entertainment industry. Their success highlights how skills honed in wrestling—charisma, presence, physicality—translate into compelling screen performances. The ongoing debate about who is the John Cena best actor or top WWE-turned-actor reflects differing preferences for style and genre, but all three have made indelible marks on Hollywood.
With The Rock preparing to undertake serious dramatic roles under the direction of a celebrated filmmaker and Cena and Batista continuing to grow their portfolios, their combined influence will likely inspire future WWE talent to pursue similar paths. Their work continues to expand the boundaries of what wrestler-turned-actors can achieve, making this a fascinating space to watch in entertainment.
