What WWE Wrestler Played Football?

Who doesn’t love a good crossover? Many WWE wrestlers have had interesting careers before stepping foot inside the squared circle, and some of them even played football! In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the gridiron careers of some well-known WWE superstars.

1. Roman Reigns

One of the most prominent WWE superstars today, Roman Reigns, formerly known as Leati Joseph Anoa’i, was not only a standout performer in the ring but also on the football field.

He played college football at Georgia Tech as a defensive tackle. Reigns’ athletic ability and strength translated well to his wrestling career, where he became a multiple-time world champion.

2. Baron Corbin

Baron Corbin, also known as Thomas Pestock, had dreams of playing professional football before joining the WWE.

He played offensive guard in college for Northwest Missouri State University. After college, Corbin pursued a career in the NFL and spent time with the Indianapolis Colts and Arizona Cardinals before transitioning to professional wrestling.

3. Mojo Rawley

Mojo Rawley, whose real name is Dean Muhtadi, started his athletic journey on the football field.

He played college football at the University of Maryland as a defensive lineman. Rawley’s high energy and enthusiasm are evident in both his football and wrestling performances.

4. Montez Ford

Montez Ford is one half of The Street Profits tag team in WWE.

Before entertaining fans in the wrestling ring, Ford showcased his skills on the football field as an accomplished wide receiver at Angelo State University in Texas.

Other Wrestlers with Football Backgrounds:

• The Rock: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson played college football at the University of Miami before becoming one of the biggest names in WWE history.
• Goldberg: Before dominating in WCW and WWE, Bill Goldberg played college football as a defensive tackle for the University of Georgia.
• Brock Lesnar: Brock Lesnar, also known as “The Beast Incarnate,” had a successful collegiate wrestling career at the University of Minnesota. However, he also briefly pursued a career in football and played for the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL.

In conclusion, it’s fascinating to see how many WWE superstars have crossed paths with football before finding success in professional wrestling. Their experiences on the gridiron undoubtedly shaped their physicality and determination, contributing to their success inside the ring.

Whether they transitioned directly from football or pursued it alongside their wrestling careers, these individuals have left an indelible mark on both sports.