knox6) Why These 5 NBA Stars Tried Pro Wrestling

It may sound crazy, but yes — some of the tallest and most iconic NBA legends have stepped out of the basketball court… and into the wrestling ring.

And not just as guest stars. We’re talking body slams, trash talk, and full-on matches in front of screaming fans. But why would multi-millionaire, world-class athletes risk injury and step into the chaos of professional wrestling?

Was it for fame? Fun? Or something deeper?

Let’s dive into the surprising stories of 5 NBA stars who tried pro wrestling — and find out what made them lace up their boots.

1. Dennis Rodman — The Worm Goes Wild in WCW

When you talk about wild personalities in the NBA, Dennis Rodman tops the list. The five-time NBA champion wasn’t just famous for his rebounding — he was famous for breaking rules.

So, it made perfect sense when Rodman joined WCW (World Championship Wrestling) in the late 1990s. At the peak of his NBA fame, Rodman shocked fans by appearing alongside Hollywood Hogan in the infamous NWO (New World Order) faction.

In 1997 and 1998, Rodman even skipped NBA practice with the Chicago Bulls during the Finals to appear in wrestling matches. That’s right — while his teammates trained for the most important games of the year, Rodman was out getting body-slammed.

He even competed in tag team matches against another NBA icon — which brings us to our next story.

2. Karl Malone — The Mailman Delivers a Slam

Karl Malone, known as “The Mailman,” was one of the most consistent scorers in NBA history. But fans were stunned when he showed up in a wrestling ring to fight… Dennis Rodman!

In 1998, just weeks after the NBA Finals where the Bulls defeated the Jazz, Malone teamed up with Diamond Dallas Page in WCW’s Bash at the Beach, taking on Rodman and Hogan in a blockbuster match.

The crowd went wild. Malone held his own in the ring — showing surprising agility and physicality. He even lifted and slammed Rodman like a seasoned pro.

For Malone, wrestling wasn’t just fun. It was a chance to get revenge — not just from the Finals loss, but from the constant trash talk. And millions tuned in to see it.

3. Shaquille O’Neal — Big Man in a Bigger Ring

Shaq has always been larger than life — both on and off the court. So, when he stepped into the WWE and later AEW (All Elite Wrestling) ring, it felt like a natural crossover.

Shaq’s first major appearance came at WrestleMania 32 in 2016, where he entered the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, going head-to-head (literally) with The Big Show. It was a moment fans didn’t expect — two giants staring each other down in the middle of the ring.

But that wasn’t the end.

In 2021, Shaq returned to the ring in AEW and shocked the world by taking a table bump — getting slammed through a table in a brutal tag-team match. Yes, 7'1", 325-lb Shaquille O’Neal crashed through a table… and got back up.

Why did Shaq do it?

He’s said he’s a lifelong wrestling fan. For him, it was about living out a dream — and proving that even in retirement, he’s still a showman at heart.

4. Dwight Howard — The Audition That Broke the Internet

In 2022, Dwight Howard was between NBA contracts. But instead of waiting by the phone, he showed up at a WWE tryout event in Nashville — and stole the show.

Dressed as a flamboyant character named “Sho’nuff”, inspired by a classic kung-fu villain, Howard cut hilarious promos and interacted with WWE superstars. Videos of his performance went viral instantly.

What surprised fans most was that he was good — really good. His energy, charisma, and physical presence made him look like a natural wrestler. He even hinted that if the NBA didn’t call, WWE might be his next move.

Howard’s performance showed just how seriously these NBA stars take wrestling — not as a joke, but as a second career.

5. Stephen Jackson — The Realest in the Ring

Former NBA champion Stephen Jackson may be more known for his toughness and no-nonsense attitude. But in 2023, he surprised fans by getting involved in AEW (All Elite Wrestling).

During a televised event, Jackson appeared ringside as part of a storyline and even got physical with some wrestlers. While he didn’t compete in a full match, his presence added authenticity — and heat — to the moment.

Why did he do it?

Jackson is a known fight fan. His podcast persona and outspoken nature made him a perfect fit for the world of pro wrestling — where being loud and real counts just as much as athleticism.

Why Do NBA Stars Enter the Wrestling Ring?

So, what drives elite basketball players — with millions in earnings and global fame — to step into the chaotic, physical, and unpredictable world of wrestling?

Here’s why:

Showmanship: Wrestling gives them a stage to entertain beyond sports. Trash talk, entrance music, and wild costumes? It’s a playground for personalities like Shaq and Rodman.

Respect for the Craft: Many NBA stars grew up watching legends like The Rock, Stone Cold, and Ric Flair. Wrestling wasn’t just entertainment — it was part of their childhood.

Physical Challenge: These guys are elite athletes. Wrestling offers them another arena to prove their toughness, agility, and charisma.

Fan Connection: Wrestling fans are some of the most passionate in the world. Appearing in the ring lets NBA stars tap into a different kind of energy — raw, live, and electric.

From championship rings to wrestling rings, these NBA legends proved they’re more than just basketball players — they’re entertainers, risk-takers, and fans of the fight.

So, next time you see a 7-foot giant slam someone through a table, don’t be surprised if it’s an NBA All-Star.

Which crossover surprised you the most?

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Because when worlds collide… the results are unforgettable.