View source for Dave Bautista

{{short description|American actor and professional wrestler (born 1969)}}
{{redirect|David Batista|the Brazilian footballer|David Batista (footballer)}}
{{pp-move}}
{{pp-blp|small=yes}}
{{Use American English|date=May 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox person
| name               = Dave Bautista
| image              = Dave Bautista Photo Op GalaxyCon Minneapolis 2019.jpg
| caption            = Bautista at the 2019 [[GalaxyCon]] Minneapolis
| birth_name         = David Michael Bautista Jr.
| birth_date         = {{Birth date and age|1969|01|18|mf=yes}}
| birth_place        = [[Washington, D.C.]], U.S.
| occupation         = {{hlist|Actor|professional wrestler|mixed martial artist}}
| years_active       = 1999–2019 (wrestling)<br />2006–present (acting)<br />2012 (MMA)
| spouse             = {{plainlist|
* {{marriage|Glenda Bautista|1990|1998|end=divorced}}
* {{marriage|Angie Bautista|1998|2006|end=divorced}}
* {{marriage|Sarah Jade|2015|2019|end=separated}}
}}
| children           = 3
| signature          = Dave Bautista signature.svg
| module             = {{Infobox professional wrestler|child=yes
| names              = Batista<br />Dave Batista<br />Deacon Batista<br />Khan<br />Leviathan
| billed             = Washington, D.C.
| trainer            = '''[[Professional wrestling]]''':<br/>[[Afa Anoaʻi]]<br />'''[[Muay Thai]] and [[Eskrima]]''':<br/>Marrese Crump
| height             = 6 ft 6 in<ref name="wwebio"/>
| weight             = 290 lb<ref name="wwebio"/>
| debut              = October 30, 1999
| retired            = [[WrestleMania 35|April 8, 2019]]
}}
| module2            = {{Infobox martial artist|child=yes
| image           = 
| caption         =
| other_names     = 
| height          = 6 ft 4 in
| weight_lb       = 265
| weight_class    = [[Heavyweight (MMA)|Heavyweight]]
| stance          =
| rank            = Brown belt in [[Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu]] {{small|under Cesar Gracie}}
| team            = Gracie Fighter Tampa<br />[[Cesar Gracie Jiu-Jitsu]] 
| years_active    = 2012
| mma_win         = 1
| mma_kowin       = 1
| mma_subwin      =
| mma_decwin      =
| mma_loss        = 0
| mma_koloss      =
| mma_subloss     =
| mma_decloss     =
| mma_draw        =
| mma_nc          =
| sherdog         = 109113
}}
}}

'''David Michael Bautista Jr.''' (born January 18, 1969) is an American actor and retired [[professional wrestler]]. Regarded as one of the most prolific professional wrestlers of the [[Ruthless Aggression Era]], he rose to fame for his multiple stints in [[WWE]] between 2002 and 2019.

Bautista began his wrestling career in 1999 and signed with [[WWE]] (then WWF) in 2000. From 2002 to 2010, he gained fame under the [[ring name]] '''Batista''', initially as a member of [[Evolution (professional wrestling)|Evolution]]. Amongst other championships, Bautista would go on to win the [[WWE Championship]] twice and the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] four times. His first reign as World Heavyweight Champion was the longest in the title's history. He also won the [[Royal Rumble (2005)|2005]] and [[Royal Rumble (2014)|2014]] Royal Rumble matches and subsequently headlined [[WrestleMania 21]] and [[WrestleMania XXX]], with the former being one of the top five highest-grossing PPV events in wrestling history. He retired from professional wrestling after [[WrestleMania 35]] in 2019.

As an actor, Bautista is known for portraying [[Drax (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Drax]] in the [[Marvel Cinematic Universe]] (2014–2023) and [[List of Dune characters#Rabban|Rabban]] in ''[[Dune (2021 film)|Dune]]'' (2021) and [[Dune: Part Two|its 2024 sequel]]. Bautista has additionally starred in ''[[Spectre (2015 film)|Spectre]]'' (2015), ''[[Blade Runner 2049]]'' (2017), ''[[Final Score (2018 film)|Final Score]]'', ''[[Master Z: Ip Man Legacy]]'' (both 2018), ''[[Army of the Dead]]'' (2021), ''[[Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery]]'' (2022), ''[[Knock at the Cabin]]'' and ''[[Parachute (film)|Parachute]]'' (both 2023), and ''[[The Last Showgirl]]'' (2024).<ref>{{cite web |title=Dave Bautista |url=https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/dave_bautista |website=[[Rotten Tomatoes]] |access-date=2 January 2024}}</ref>

== Early life ==
David Michael Bautista Jr. was born in [[Washington, D.C.]], on January 18, 1969,<ref>{{cite news|last=Rose|first=Mike|title=Today's famous birthdays list for January 18, 2023 includes celebrities Kevin Costner, Dave Bautista|work=The Plain Dealer|date=January 18, 2023|access-date=January 18, 2023|url=https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2023/01/todays-famous-birthdays-list-for-january-18-2023-includes-celebrities-kevin-costner-dave-bautista.html}}</ref> the son of Donna Raye ({{née|Mullins}}) and hairdresser David Michael Bautista. His mother is of Greek descent, while his father was born to Filipino immigrants.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/reliable-source/wp/2017/05/15/actor-david-bautista-hits-a-nats-game-recalls-poor-childhood-in-d-c/|title=Actor David Bautista hits a Nats game, recalls poor childhood in DC|newspaper=The Washington Post|access-date=May 12, 2021|date=May 15, 2017}}</ref><ref name="batista6">{{cite book|title=Batista Unleashed|first=Dave|last=Batista|author2=Roberts, Jeremy|isbn=978-1-4165-4410-4|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|page=[https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/6 6]|date=October 2007|url=https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/6}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7kzVr6BJETsC&q=%22My+mom's+father,+Kenneth+Mullins,+was+in+the+service,+too.%22&pg=PA8|title=Batista Unleashed – Dave Batista – Google Books|via=[[Google Books]]|date=October 16, 2007|access-date=August 4, 2014|isbn=9781416554202|last1=Batista|first1=Dave|publisher=Simon and Schuster}}</ref> His paternal grandfather served in the [[Armed Forces of the Philippines|Philippine military]], worked as a taxi driver and barber, and held other jobs to feed the family. Bautista's mother later came out as a lesbian.<ref name=":0">{{cite episode|title=Give Me What I Want with Dave Bautista|series=The Darkest Timeline|date=May 30, 2020|number=15|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTILweGvd9w| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211027/xTILweGvd9w| archive-date=October 27, 2021|network=[[YouTube]]|access-date=October 27, 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref> He has said that he lived in poverty and had a hard life which included exposure to violent crime at an early age.<ref>{{cite web|first=Ed|last=Richelle|url=http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2006/sept/16/yehey/life/20060916lif5.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071021053955/http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2006/sept/16/yehey/life/20060916lif5.html|archive-date=October 21, 2007|date=September 16, 2006|title=Pinoy hospitality tames 'The Animal'|access-date=August 5, 2008|work=[[The Manila Times]]|publisher=Manila Times Publishing Corporation (via Web Archive)}}</ref> Before reaching the age of nine, two bodies had been found on his front lawn and another one nearby.<ref>{{cite book|title=Batista Unleashed|first=Dave|last=Batista|author2=Roberts, Jeremy|isbn=978-1-4165-4410-4|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|pages=[https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/16 16–17]|date=October 2007|url=https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/16}}</ref> As young as age 13, he had begun stealing cars.<ref name="Manilla">{{cite web|url=http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=goodLife02_sept23_2006|title=Who's afraid of Batista?|date=September 23, 2006|access-date=August 4, 2008|first=NRJ|last=Ramos|work=[[Manila Standard Today]]|publisher=Kamahalan Publishing Corporation|archive-date=October 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004084810/http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=goodLife02_sept23_2006|url-status=dead}}</ref> By age 17, he was estranged from his parents and living on his own.<ref name="WWESS1">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/batista1|title=Batista's SummerSlam homecoming|first=David|last=Agostino|date=August 17, 2005|access-date=June 4, 2008|publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> However, he later said, "I am proud of my parents. They are good, honest, hard-working folks. They taught me the values of working hard."<ref name="Manilla" />

Bautista worked as a nightclub bouncer until he was arrested after a fight that left two patrons injured, one of whom was knocked unconscious.<ref name="WWESS1" /> After a trial, he was sentenced to one year of [[probation]].<ref name="WWESS1" /> He worked as a lifeguard<ref>{{cite book|title=Batista Unleashed|first=Dave|last=Batista|author2=Roberts, Jeremy|isbn=978-1-4165-4410-4|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|pages=[https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/50 50–51]|date=October 2007|url=https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/50}}</ref> before deciding to pursue a career in bodybuilding,<ref name="WWESS1" /> which he credits with saving his life.<ref>{{cite book|title=Batista Unleashed|first=Dave|last=Batista|author2=Roberts, Jeremy|isbn=978-1-4165-4410-4|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|page=[https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/42 42]|date=October 2007|url=https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/42}}</ref> At the age of 30, after having a breakdown from the shame he felt for having to ask a co-worker to lend him money so he could buy Christmas presents for his children, he saw how lucrative a career in professional wrestling could be and decided to pursue it.<ref name=":0" />{{Professional wrestling sidebar}}

== Professional wrestling career ==
=== Training and early career (1999–2000) ===
Bautista tried out at [[World Championship Wrestling]]'s [[WCW Power Plant|Power Plant]], where trainer [[DeWayne Bruce]] told him he would never make it in the wrestling business.<ref>{{cite book|title=Batista Unleashed|first=Dave|last=Batista|author2=Roberts, Jeremy|isbn=978-1-4165-4410-4|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|pages=[https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/61 61–62]|date=October 2007|url=https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/61}}</ref> He then went to the [[World Wrestling Federation]] (WWF), who advised him to train with [[Afa Anoaʻi]] at the Wild Samoan Training Center,<ref name="SLAM! Profile" /><ref>{{cite book|title=Batista Unleashed|first=Dave|last=Batista|author2=Roberts, Jeremy|isbn=978-1-4165-4410-4|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|pages=[https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/72 72–93]|date=October 2007|url=https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/72}}</ref> where he trained and later competed in Anoaʻi's [[World Xtreme Wrestling]] (WXW) promotion. He wrestled his debut match under the [[ring name]] '''Khan''' on October 30, 1999,<ref name="officialsite">{{cite web|url= http://www.demon-wrestling.com/pages/faq.php|title=The Demon FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)|publisher=Demon Wrestling|access-date=November 13, 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071016045743/http://www.demon-wrestling.com/pages/faq.php |archive-date = October 16, 2007}}</ref> less than three months before his 31st birthday.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=962&page=4&s=900|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725181323/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=962&page=4&s=900|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 25, 2020|title=Batista: Matches (archived)|last=Kreikenbohm|first=Philip|publisher=Cagematch.net|access-date=October 18, 2018}}</ref> He also trained with Marrese Crump in [[Muay Thai]] and [[Eskrima]].<ref name="officialsite" /><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.martialartsentertainment.com/marrese-crump/ |title=Marrese Crump |date=November 15, 2011 |work=Martial Arts Entertainment |access-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref>

=== World Wrestling Federation / World Wrestling Entertainment / WWE (2000–2010) ===

==== Ohio Valley Wrestling (2000–2002) ====
Upon signing with the WWF in 2000, Bautista was sent to [[Ohio Valley Wrestling]] (OVW), a WWF [[Farm team#Professional wrestling|developmental territory]]. He made his OVW debut later that year under the ring name '''Leviathan''',<ref name="officialsite" /> where he immediately joined forces with Synn. As a member of the "Disciples of Synn" [[List of professional wrestling terms#Stable|stable]], he went undefeated until being beaten at ''Christmas Chaos'' by [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]] with help from [[Stone Cold Steve Austin]]. He later won the [[OVW Heavyweight Championship]] from [["The Machine" Doug Basham]] before losing the belt to [[John Cena|The Prototype]]. A few months later, Bautista left OVW after he was promoted to WWE's main roster.<ref name="SLAM! Profile">{{cite web|first=John|last=Milner|author2=Kamchen, Richard|title=Dave Bautista – Slam! Sports profile|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/batista.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150617185113/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/batista.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 17, 2015|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|access-date=September 11, 2007}}</ref><!-- Ref covers all the paragraph. -->

==== Early storylines (2002–2003) ====
While still in OVW, Bautista began appearing on non-televised WWE events.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/batista-357.html?prom_id=1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220515175648/http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/batista-357.html?prom_id=1 |archive-date=May 15, 2022 |title=WWF matches wrestled by Batista |work=Internet Wrestling Database |access-date=February 23, 2023}}</ref> He began his televised WWE career on May 9, 2002, on an episode of ''[[WWE SmackDown|SmackDown!]]'' as Deacon Batista, a [[heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] [[Enforcer (professional wrestling)|enforcer]] for [[D-Von Dudley|Reverend D-Von]].<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | page = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/95 95] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/95}}</ref> He made his WWE in-ring debut in a [[tag team]] match teaming with D-Von against [[Ron Simmons|Faarooq]] and [[Randy Orton]], [[Pin (professional wrestling)|pinning]] Orton. Over several weeks, Orton tried to beat D-Von and Batista with different partners, but ultimately lost each time.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|orig-year=2003|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|page=170|date=April 2003}}</ref> Batista suffered his first loss in a match against [[Solofa Fatu|Rikishi]] after D-Von accidentally punched him, allowing Rikishi to take advantage and pin Batista. Batista and D-Von argued over the forthcoming weeks, with Batista eventually turning on D-Von. On the November 14 episode of ''SmackDown!'', Batista defeated D-Von to end their feud.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|orig-year=2003|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|page=203|date=April 2003}}</ref> After splitting with D-Von, he was assigned to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] brand and was renamed Batista. He aligned himself with [[Ric Flair]]<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie|title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|orig-year=2003|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|page=334|date=April 2003}}</ref> and [[Feud (professional wrestling)|feuded]] with [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]], whom he defeated at [[Armageddon (2002)|Armageddon]] on December 15.<ref>{{cite book|first=Michael|last=McAvennie| title=WWE The Yearbook: 2003 Edition|publisher=[[Simon & Schuster]]|orig-year=2003|isbn=0-7434-6373-0|pages=328–330|date=April 2003}}</ref>

==== Evolution (2003–2005) ====
{{main|Evolution (professional wrestling)|l1=Evolution}}
In January 2003, Batista joined [[Triple H]], Ric Flair and Randy Orton to form the heel stable [[Evolution (professional wrestling)|Evolution]].<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | page = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/138 138] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/138}}</ref> Batista, however, was sidelined for much of 2003 after he tore his right [[Triceps brachii muscle|triceps muscle]] at a ''Raw'' [[house show|live event]] in a tag team match alongside Orton against [[The Dudley Boyz]]. While training after the injury, Batista re-tore his triceps, extending his stay on the sidelines.<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/140 140–142] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/140}}</ref> Batista made his return on the October 20 episode of ''Raw'', interfering in a match between [[Bill Goldberg|Goldberg]] and [[Shawn Michaels]].<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/143 143–144] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/143}}</ref> At [[Armageddon (2003)|Armageddon]] on December 14, Batista and Ric Flair became the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Champions]] after winning a Tag Team Turmoil match,<ref name="WT1">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/3044541321151 |title=Batista and Ric Flair's first World Tag Team Championship reign |access-date=September 19, 2007 |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070515134535/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/3044541321151 |archive-date=May 15, 2007}}</ref> while Triple H won the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] and Randy Orton the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Championship]].<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/139 139–140] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/139}}</ref> Batista and Flair held the titles until the February 16, 2004, episode of ''Raw'', when they were defeated by [[Booker Huffman|Booker T]] and [[Rob Van Dam]].<ref>{{cite news | url = http://raw.wwe.com/results/021604/results.html | title = Triple Threat at WrestleMania XX ... 'cause Stone Cold said so | newspaper = Wwe | date = February 16, 2004 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] (via Web Archive) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040610091854/http://raw.wwe.com/results/021604/results.html |archive-date=June 10, 2004}}</ref> They later defeated Booker T and Van Dam on the March 22 episode of ''Raw'' to regain the titles before losing them to [[Chris Benoit]] and [[Edge (wrestler)|Edge]] on the April 19 episode of ''Raw''.<ref name="WT2">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/304454132142|title=Batista and Ric Flair's second World Tag Team Championship reign|access-date=September 19, 2007|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071103034818/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/304454132142|archive-date=November 3, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2004/03/23/392732.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718172232/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2004/03/23/392732.html |archive-date=July 18, 2012 | title = Raw: Draft day an unpredictable night | date = March 23, 2004 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Nick | last = Tylwalk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/raw/040419.html | title= WWE RAW Results (April 19, 2004) | work = Online World of Wrestling}}</ref>

In late 2004, the relationship between Batista and Triple H began to deteriorate in [[kayfabe]]. After a loss to [[Chris Jericho]], Triple H verbally insulted Batista. Batista teased leaving Evolution that night, but declared that he was still part of Evolution and that they tricked everyone.<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | page = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/156 156] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/156}}</ref> Despite this ploy, Batista began behaving more like a [[Face (professional wrestling)|face]] over the next few weeks in comparison to Evolution's heel tactics. One particular moment saw Batista express disgust as Triple H and Ric Flair boasted about how they had intimidated and/or beat up [[Jim Ross]], [[Danny Hodge]], and [[Stacy Keibler]]. Regardless, he continued to show his loyalty to Triple H and Evolution by running down to the ring and assisting them in matches.

As 2005 began, Triple H realized the possibility of Batista becoming a threat to his World Heavyweight Championship. Triple H suggested that he not enter the [[Royal Rumble (2005)|Royal Rumble]] on January 30, claiming that it would be selfish of him to do so, and to simply focus on Triple H retaining the title. Batista entered anyway and went on to win the Rumble earning the right to participate in the main event of [[WrestleMania 21]] on April 3 against the World Champion of his choice.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/history/198811/mainevent/|title=Royal Rumble 2005 Main Event|newspaper=Wwe|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=August 5, 2008}}</ref> On the February 14 episode of ''Raw'', in an attempt to persuade Batista to challenge [[WWE Championship|WWE Champion]] [[John Layfield|John "Bradshaw" Layfield]] (JBL) and challenger [[John Cena]] in a triple-threat match rather than him, Triple H concocted a scheme to have Batista [[Hit and run (vehicular)|run over]] in a [[limousine]] resembling the one used by JBL. Initially, Batista did not want help from Evolution and wanted to confront JBL by himself. Triple H insisted that Evolution stick together and accompanied Batista anyway, saving him from the oncoming vehicle.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/02/15/931709.html | title = Raw: Love is in the air | date = February 15, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Nick | last = Tylwalk | archive-date = July 14, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120714122840/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/02/15/931709.html | url-status = usurped}}</ref> Batista became aware of the plot while sneakily eavesdropping on fellow Evolution members and signed a contract guaranteeing him a match with the World Heavyweight Champion Triple H at WrestleMania 21, thus leaving Evolution and officially turning face. Batista initially pretended that he would sign with SmackDown!, giving Triple H and Flair the "thumbs up", but turned it into a "thumbs down" before attacking the pair. He emphasized his departure by [[powerbomb]]ing Triple H through the table used for the contract signing.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/02/22/938787.html | title = Raw: Batista makes his choice | date = February 22, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Nick | last = Tylwalk | archive-date = July 14, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120714033953/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/02/22/938787.html | url-status = usurped}}</ref>

==== World Heavyweight Champion (2005–2008) ====
[[File:DBatista.jpg|thumb|left|upright|Batista as [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Champion]] in September 2005]]
Batista won the World Heavyweight Championship on April 3 by defeating Triple H in the main event of WrestleMania 21.<ref name="wwebio">{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/batista|title=Batista bio|access-date=April 3, 2011|newspaper=[[WWE]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm21/mainevent/ |title=Batista vs. Triple H – World Heavyweight Championship |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=August 5, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071226223443/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/history/wm21/mainevent/ |archive-date=December 26, 2007}}</ref> WrestleMania 21 received 1.09 million pay-per-view buys worldwide – the then-highest ever number of buys for any non-[[Professional boxing|boxing]] pay-per-view. Batista's match with Triple H was described by [[Sports journalism|sports journalist]] [[Dave Meltzer]] as "the peak of one of [WWE's] best storylines in years".<ref name="Meltzer">{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2012/9/28/3425070/big-question-a-week-in-advance-of-pro-wrestling-superstars-mma-debut|title=Big question remains before Dave Bautista's MMA debut|author=Meltzer, Dave|publisher=mmafighting.com|date=September 2012|access-date=September 30, 2012|author-link=Dave Meltzer}}</ref> Batista won a rematch with Triple H for the World Heavyweight Championship at [[Backlash (2005)|Backlash]] on May 1.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/backlash2005/mainevent/ |title=World Heavyweight Champion Batista def. Triple H to retain |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=August 5, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080329163822/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/backlash2005/mainevent/ |archive-date=March 29, 2008}}</ref> After Batista retained his title against Edge on the May 23 episode of ''Raw'', he was betrayed by Ric Flair, who helped Triple H viciously attack Batista as Triple H challenged Batista to a [[Hell in a Cell]] match at [[Vengeance (2005)|Vengeance]] on June 26.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/3442301/ | title = Tainted victory | date = May 23, 2005 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Batista won the match at Vengeance, retaining his title yet again. With this win, Batista became the first wrestler to pin Triple H in a Hell in a Cell match.<ref>{{cite news|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/vengeance/history/vengeance2005/mainevent/|title=World Heavyweight Champion Batista def. Triple H in a Hell in a Cell Match to retain|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=November 13, 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071020120141/http://www.wwe.com/shows/vengeance/history/vengeance2005/mainevent/ |archive-date = October 20, 2007}}</ref>

On the June 30 episode of ''SmackDown!'', Batista was drafted to the [[SmackDown (WWE brand)|SmackDown!]] brand as the last pick in the [[2005 WWE Draft Lottery]], making a surprise appearance to thwart [[John Layfield (wrestler)|John "Bradshaw" Layfield]] (JBL), who was celebrating his victory in a six-man elimination match to crown the inaugural "SmackDown! Champion". This resulted in Batista bringing the World Heavyweight Championship to ''SmackDown!''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/06302005/ | title = Jackpot! | date = June 30, 2005 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> JBL defeated Batista at [[The Great American Bash (2005)|The Great American Bash]] on July 24 by disqualification after the referee saw Batista use a steel chair.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/thegreatamericanbash/history/2005/mainevent/|title=Batista vs. JBL for the World Heavyweight Championship|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=November 13, 2007 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071027092318/http://www.wwe.com/shows/thegreatamericanbash/history/2005/mainevent/ |archive-date = October 27, 2007}}</ref> They had a rematch at [[SummerSlam (2005)|SummerSlam]] on August 21 in a [[No Disqualification match|No Holds Barred match]] in which Batista pinned JBL.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2005/08/22/hogan-hbk-steal-summerslam/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204220705/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2005/08/22/hogan-hbk-steal-summerslam/ |archive-date=December 4, 2022 | title = Hogan-HBK steal SummerSlam | date = August 22, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | work = Slam Wrestling | first = Nick | last = Tylwalk | author2 = Plummer, Dale}}</ref> The feud culminated in a [[Strap match|Texas Bull Rope match]] on the September 9 episode of ''SmackDown!'' with Batista retaining his championship.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/08042006/articles/returnofnti | title = Changing Friday nights | date = September 9, 2005 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Soon after retaining the title in a feud with [[Eddie Guerrero]] at [[No Mercy (2005)|No Mercy]] on October 9,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2005/mainevent/ |title=Batista vs. Eddie Guerrero for the World Heavyweight Championship |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=November 13, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071114192032/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2005/mainevent/ |archive-date=November 14, 2007}}</ref> WWE.com reported that Batista suffered a muscle tear in his back at the taping for the November 11 episode of ''SmackDown!'' due to a double chokeslam from [[Big Show and Kane]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/batistainjury | title = Batista injury update | date = November 9, 2005 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] (via Web Archive) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051124160846/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/batistainjury |archive-date=November 24, 2005}}</ref> Plans had been made for Batista to defend the title in a Triple Threat match with Eddie Guerrero and Randy Orton on the November 18 episode of ''SmackDown!'', but the match did not take place as Guerrero unexpectedly died on November 13, the date of the taping. Batista paid homage to Guerrero during the ''Raw'' and ''SmackDown!'' tribute shows dedicated to Guerrero's memory.<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/215 215–219] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/215}}</ref>

Batista led Team SmackDown! against Team Raw in an inter-brand feud before [[Survivor Series (2005)|Survivor Series]] on November 27. The feud saw Big Show and Kane chokeslamming Batista several more times in the weeks leading up to Survivor Series in an on-camera explanation for Batista's injury.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/11/24/1321807.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716191516/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/11/24/1321807.html |archive-date=July 16, 2012 | title = Smackdown: Fighting back the Raw invasion | date = November 24, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Greg | last = Oliver}}</ref> Batista ultimately helped his team win the match at Survivor Series.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2005/11/28/smackdown-wins-but-undertaker-the-real-survivor/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220630125457/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2005/11/28/smackdown-wins-but-undertaker-the-real-survivor/ |archive-date=June 30, 2022 | title = Smackdown wins, but Undertaker the real survivor | date = November 28, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | work = Slam Wrestling | first = Dale | last = Plummer | author2 = Tylwalk, Nick}}</ref> After Batista saved [[Rey Mysterio]] from Big Show and Kane on the December 2 episode of ''SmackDown!'',<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/12/03/1335038.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716093840/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/12/03/1335038.html |archive-date=July 16, 2012 | title = Smackdown: Hey babe, you wanna boogey? | date = December 3, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Jon | last = Waldman}}</ref> leading to a match with Mysterio teaming with Batista to face Big Show and Kane at [[Armageddon (2005)|Armageddon]] on December 18.

On the December 16 episode of ''SmackDown!'', Batista and Mysterio defeated [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|WWE Tag Team Champions]]<ref name="WWEtag">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwetag/1806054 |title=Batista and Rey Mysterio's first WWE Tag Team Championship reign |access-date=September 19, 2007 |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011023155/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwetag/1806054 |archive-date=October 11, 2007}}</ref> [[MNM (wrestling)|MNM]] to win the titles in a match they dedicated to Eddie Guerrero, and thus Batista became a double champion.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/12/16/1356098.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716093840/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/12/03/1335038.html |archive-date=July 16, 2012 | title = Smackdown: Can Batista capture double gold? | date = December 16, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Andy | last = McNamara}}</ref> After this, the clash with Big Show and Kane at Armageddon turned into a Champions vs. Champions encounter. Batista and Mysterio lost to Big Show and Kane at Armageddon.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/12/19/1359743.html | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120717163000/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2005/12/19/1359743.html | url-status = usurped | archive-date = July 17, 2012 | title = Taker-Orton rises above Armageddon | date = December 19, 2005 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Chris | last = Sokol}}</ref> Two weeks later on the December 30 episode of ''SmackDown!'', MNM defeated Batista and Mysterio after help from the returning [[Mark Henry]] to regain the WWE Tag Team Championship. During the interference, Henry attacked Batista, and performed his ''[[Powerslam#Falling powerslam|World's Strongest Slam]]''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/12302005/ | title = A shocking return leads to new Champs | date = December 30, 2005 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The teams met again in a steel cage match on the January 6, 2006 episode of ''SmackDown!'' that Henry also became involved in, and Batista and Mysterio were defeated again.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/01062006/ | title = Making statements | date = January 6, 2006 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Batista tore his right triceps during a match with Mark Henry at a house show on January 6, forcing him to vacate the World Heavyweight Championship at the ''SmackDown!'' tapings on January 13, two days after surpassing Triple H's previous mark of 280 days for longest reigning champion. In his book, ''Batista Unleashed'', Batista said that he believed that Henry was "careless" during their match as he never gave Batista any warning that the move was coming. Batista went on to have successful surgery on his arm on January 12.<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/224 224–228] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/224}}</ref>

[[File:Batistalive.jpg|thumb|upright|Batista in 2006]]
Batista made an appearance at [[No Way Out (2006)|No Way Out]] on February 19 and told the crowd that once his arm had healed he would return to regain the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/02/20/1452718.html | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120716035054/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/02/20/1452718.html | url-status = usurped | archive-date = July 16, 2012 | title = Main events salvage No Way Out | date = February 20, 2006 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Chris | last = Sokol}}</ref> At [[WrestleMania 22]] on April 2, he interrupted a Randy Orton interview, putting SmackDown! on notice that the World Heavyweight Championship would return to him by [[WrestleMania 23]].<ref>{{cite web | url = https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2006/04/03/wrestlemania-delivers-big-time-on-ppv/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221203085749/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2006/04/03/wrestlemania-delivers-big-time-on-ppv/ |archive-date=December 3, 2022 | title = WrestleMania delivers big time on PPV | date = February 20, 2006 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | work = Slam Wrestling | first = Dale | last = Plummer | author2 = Tylwalk, Nick}}</ref>

Batista made his official return during the July 7 episode of ''SmackDown!'' immediately calling out and entering into a feud with [[Mark Henry]].<ref name="henry-pg246">{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/246 246–248] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/246}}</ref> At ''[[Saturday Night's Main Event XXXIII]]'', Batista won a six-man tag match with teammates Rey Mysterio and [[Bobby Lashley]], defeating World Heavyweight Champion [[Booker T (wrestler)|King Booker]], [[Dave Finlay|Finlay]], and Mark Henry.<ref>{{cite news | first = Brett | last = Hoffman | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/snme/history/july152006/matches/25815983/results/ | title = Animal unleashed on NBC | newspaper = Wwe | date = July 15, 2006 | access-date = August 6, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = February 22, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230222214551/https://www.wwe.com/shows/snme/history/july152006/matches/25815983/results/ | url-status = dead }}</ref> Henry was legitimately injured and was ruled out of the scheduled match between the two at [[The Great American Bash (2006)|The Great American Bash]] on July 23, thus further delaying a potential feud between the two after being delayed by Batista's initial injury.<ref name="henry-pg246" />

Batista put out an open challenge to replace the injured Henry, which was answered by [[Mr. Kennedy]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/07/20/1694912.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717114223/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/07/20/1694912.html |archive-date=July 17, 2012 | title = Smackdown: Rey drops the dime on the King | date = July 20, 2006 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Andy | last = McNamara}}</ref> At The Great American Bash, Batista lost this match via disqualification for failing to stop choking Kennedy into the turnbuckle with his boot, but continued to attack Kennedy resulting in a laceration on his forehead so severe that it exposed his cranium and required more than 20 stitches to close.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/07/23/1758530.html | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120717210447/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/07/23/1758530.html | url-status = usurped | archive-date = July 17, 2012 | title = Booker reigns after the Bash | date = July 23, 2006 | access-date = August 6, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Brian | last = Elliot}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1153769870.shtml | title =Mr. Kennedy gets stitches, Chavo turns on Mysterio, King Booker video | date = July 24, 2006 | access-date =August 6, 2008 | publisher = WrestleView.com | first = Adam | last = Martin}}</ref> Batista lost another match with Kennedy via count out in a rematch on the July 28 episode of ''SmackDown!'' before finally defeating Kennedy by pinfall on the August 4 episode of ''SmackDown!''.<ref>{{cite web | first = Craig | last = Tello | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/07282006/ | title = Coronations and carnage | date = July 28, 2006 | access-date =August 6, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | first = Brett | last = Hoffman | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/08042006/ | title = Challenge from the grave | date = August 4, 2006 | access-date =August 6, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref>

Batista faced Big Show for the [[ECW World Heavyweight Championship|ECW World Championship]] on the August 1 episode of ''[[WWE ECW|ECW]]'', winning the match by disqualification but failing to win the championship as titles cannot change hands by disqualification.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1154488172.shtml | title = ECW on Sci Fi Results – 8/1/06 – New York City, NY (Big Show/Batista) | date = August 1, 2006 | access-date =August 6, 2008 | publisher = WrestleView.com | first = Adam | last = Martin}}</ref> He then set his sights on King Booker's World Heavyweight Championship, with the two facing in a match for the title at [[SummerSlam (2006)|2006 SummerSlam]] on August 20. However, Batista also won this match by disqualification.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2006/08/21/boston-crowd-basks-in-summerslam/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221004195125/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2006/08/21/boston-crowd-basks-in-summerslam/ |archive-date=October 4, 2022 | title = Boston crowd basks in SummerSlam | date = August 21, 2006 | access-date = August 6, 2008 | work = Slam Wrestling | first = Amy | last = Lawson}}</ref> During a commercial shoot for the SummerSlam pay-per-view, Booker T and Batista reportedly got into a [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#L|legitimate]] fistfight, with Booker T accusing Batista of considering himself superior to the rest of the roster due to his quick climb to main-event status. It was also reported that some wrestlers on the SmackDown brand agreed with Booker T.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1147287803.shtml | title = Huge correction on Booker T/Batista – WWE sources say fight was legit | date = May 10, 2006 | access-date =August 6, 2008 | publisher = WrestleView.com | first = Adam | last = Martin}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1147288158.shtml | title = Batista comments on Booker T: "It had been brewing for a long time{{nbsp}}..." | date = May 10, 2006 | access-date =August 6, 2008 | publisher = WrestleView.com | first = Adam | last = Martin}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | page = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/249 249] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/249}}</ref> Batista continued his pursuit of the championship, failing to capture it once again in a fatal-four way at [[No Mercy (2006)|No Mercy]] on October 8 also involving [[Dave Finlay|Finlay]] and Bobby Lashley,<ref>{{cite web|first=Brian|last=Elliott|date=October 8, 2006|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/10/08/1978748.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112204033/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/10/08/1978748.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 12, 2016|title= Booker still reigns after No Mercy|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.com|Canadian Online Explorer]]|access-date=January 5, 2008}}</ref> before finally defeating King Booker to regain the World Heavyweight Championship at [[Survivor Series (2006)|Survivor Series]] on November 26.<ref name="wwebio" /><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2006/matches/3332480111/results/ | title = Kingdom conquered | first = Louie | last = Dee | date = November 26, 2006 | access-date = August 6, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = March 26, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170326000038/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/history/2006/matches/3332480111/results | url-status = dead }}</ref> The following month at [[Armageddon (2006)|Armageddon]] on December 17, Batista teamed with John Cena to defeat King Booker and Finlay, putting an end to the rivalry.<ref>{{cite web|first=Brian|last=Elliott|date=December 17, 2006|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/12/18/2859158.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519120351/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/12/18/2859158.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 19, 2015|title=Unexpected ladder contest steals Armageddon|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|access-date=March 29, 2008}}</ref>

[[File:Batista PR.jpeg|thumb|Batista holding the World Heavyweight Championship and a flag of [[Puerto Rico]] in 2006]]
Going into 2007, Batista began a short feud with Mr. Kennedy over the championship.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/01052007/|title=Race against time|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|date=January 5, 2007|access-date=December 31, 2007}}</ref> Batista retained the championship over Kennedy at the [[Royal Rumble (2007)|Royal Rumble]] on January 28.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/01/28/3473071.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150715005925/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/01/28/3473071.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 15, 2015|title=Old guard dominates Rumble|first1=Dale|last1=Plummer|last2=Tylwalk|first2=Nick|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|access-date=December 31, 2007}}</ref> Batista's next challenger was [[The Undertaker]], the winner of the Royal Rumble match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2007/02/06/3539808.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310030625/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2007/02/06/3539808.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 10, 2016|title=Raw: Mania main events all set|work=SLAM! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.com|Canadian Online Explorer]]|first=Dave|last=Plummer|date=February 5, 2007|access-date=January 22, 2009}}</ref> The two formed a reluctant alliance to face John Cena and [[Shawn Michaels]] at [[No Way Out (2007)|No Way Out]] on February 18, which they lost after Batista turned on The Undertaker midway through the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/history/2007/matches/34656681/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080121044611/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/history/2007/matches/34656681/results/|title=Payback|first=Brett|last=Hoffman|publisher=WWE|date=February 18, 2007|archive-date=January 21, 2008|access-date=March 5, 2008}}</ref> At WrestleMania 23 on April 1, Batista lost the World Heavyweight Championship to The Undertaker.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2007/04/01/undertaker-the-champ-mcmahon-bald/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221219175511/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2007/04/01/undertaker-the-champ-mcmahon-bald/ |archive-date=December 19, 2022 | title = Undertaker the champ, McMahon bald | date = April 1, 2007 | access-date = August 6, 2008 | work = Slam Wrestling | first = Dale | last = Plummer | author2 = Tylwalk, Nick}}</ref> They continued their feud with a [[Last Man Standing match]] at [[Backlash (2007)|Backlash]] on April 29, which ended in a draw.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/2007/matches/396065217/results/ | title = Stalemate | first = Lennie | last = DiFino | date = April 29, 2007 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = October 10, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161010091755/http://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/history/2007/matches/396065217/results | url-status = dead }}</ref> The two wrestled again in a [[Steel Cage Match]] on the May 11 episode of ''SmackDown!'', which also ended in a draw. Following the match, [[Edge (wrestler)|Edge]] took advantage and won the title from The Undertaker by cashing in his [[Money in the Bank ladder match|Money in the Bank]] contract.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/05112007/ | title = In with the new | first = Noah | last = Starr | newspaper = Wwe | date = May 11, 2007 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Afterward, Batista challenged Edge unsuccessfully for the World Heavyweight Championship at [[WWE Judgment Day (2007)|Judgment Day]] on May 20, [[One Night Stand (2007)|One Night Stand]] on June 3 (in a Steel Cage Match), and [[Vengeance: Night of Champions]] on June 24 (in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Last Chance Match|Last Chance match]]).<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/2007/matches/41244024/results/ | title = The gold standard | first = Lennie | last = DiFino | newspaper = Wwe | date = May 20, 2007 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = February 25, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170225225417/http://www.wwe.com/shows/judgmentday/history/2007/matches/41244024/results/ | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/onenightstand/history/2007/matches/4362508111/results/ | title = Edge wins by two feet | first = Mike | last = McAvennie | date = June 3, 2007 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = February 26, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170226003610/http://www.wwe.com/shows/onenightstand/history/2007/matches/4362508111/results/ | url-status = dead }}</ref> The loss at Vengeance stipulated that Batista could no longer get another chance at the World Heavyweight Championship while Edge remained champion.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/vengeance/matches/40811641/results/ | title = Batista's last stand falls | first = Mike | last = McAvennie | date = June 24, 2007 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080329070522/http://www.wwe.com/shows/vengeance/matches/40811641/results/ |archive-date = March 29, 2008}}</ref>

Batista accepted an open challenge from [[The Great Khali]] at [[The Great American Bash (2007)|The Great American Bash]] on July 22. Edge relinquished the title due to an injury the week before The Great American Bash, and Khali became the new World Heavyweight Champion, winning a [[Battle royal (professional wrestling)|Battle Royal]] and eliminating Batista.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-smackdown-report-7-20-07/|title=411's WWE Smackdown Report 7.20.07|website=411Mania.com|last=Borchardt|first=Brad|date=July 20, 2007|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> Batista and [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]], Edge's title opponent, faced Khali at The Great American Bash in a [[Triple Threat match]] where Khali retained the title.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/thegreatamericanbash/history/2007/matches/408116411/results/ | title = The Great Khali wins the big one | first = Mike | last = McAvennie | date = July 22, 2007 | access-date =August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080731143656/http://www.wwe.com/shows/thegreatamericanbash/history/2007/matches/408116411/results/ |archive-date = July 31, 2008}}</ref> Batista received a disqualification victory against Khali at [[SummerSlam (2007)|SummerSlam]] on August 26 after Khali used a steel chair, thus Khali retained the title again.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2007/matches/39000883/results/|title=Punjabi robbery|first=Louie|last=Dee|access-date=September 19, 2007|date=August 26, 2007|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-date=July 21, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080721071953/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2007/matches/39000883/results/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Batista finally claimed his third World Heavyweight Championship after eight consecutive attempts, by defeating Khali in a triple threat match that included Rey Mysterio at [[Unforgiven (2007)|Unforgiven]] on September 16.<ref name="wwebio" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_22841.shtml|access-date=October 25, 2009|date=September 17, 2007|last=Schwimmer|first=Ryan J.|title=9/16 WWE Unforgiven PPV Review: Schwimmer's "alt perspective" report on event|publisher=PWTorch}}</ref> His first challenge was from The Great Khali in a [[Punjabi Prison Match]] at [[No Mercy (2007)|No Mercy]] on October 7 where Batista retained his title. He won the match by leaping from the inner bamboo structure to the outer one, shortening his escape route and beating Khali to the floor.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2007/matches/52672881/results/ | title = Batista's Punjabi Prison break | first = Mike | last = McAvennie | newspaper = Wwe | date = October 7, 2007 | access-date = August 4, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = February 22, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230222215855/https://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2007/matches/52672881/results/ | url-status = dead }}</ref>

After the return of The Undertaker at Unforgiven, the duo reignited their feud at [[Cyber Sunday (2007)|Cyber Sunday]] on October 28 where the fans chose [[Stone Cold Steve Austin]] as the [[Professional wrestling match types#Special referee|Special Guest Referee]]. Batista pinned The Undertaker after two Batista Bombs.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/history/2007/matches/5267610/results/ | title = Batista conquers his Phenom-enal demons | first = Mike | last = McAvennie | newspaper = Wwe | date = October 28, 2007 | access-date = August 4, 2008 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] | archive-date = March 26, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170326093122/http://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/history/2007/matches/5267610/results | url-status = dead }}</ref> The feud continued with a Hell in a Cell match at [[Survivor Series (2007)|Survivor Series]] on November 18. During the match, Edge returned and interfered by giving The Undertaker a [[Professional wrestling attacks#One man con-chair-to|con-chair-to]]. He then pulled an unconscious Batista on top of The Undertaker for the pinfall to retain the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite news|first=Louie|last=Dee|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/matches/4334964/results/|title=On the Edge of Hell|access-date=November 19, 2007|date=November 18, 2007|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071120165525/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/matches/4334964/results/ |archive-date = November 20, 2007}}</ref> At [[Armageddon (2007)|Armageddon]] on December 16, Edge won a Triple Threat match, alongside The Undertaker for Batista's World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite news | first = Mike | last = McAvennie|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/matches/554660422/results/|title=Edge's "three-meditated" attack to perfection| newspaper = Wwe|date=December 17, 2007|access-date=August 4, 2008|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080331154056/http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/matches/554660422/results/ |archive-date = March 31, 2008}}</ref>

[[File:Batista-SD-houseshow.jpg|thumb|upright|Batista in June 2008]]
Batista appeared in the [[Royal Rumble (2008)|Royal Rumble]] on January 27, 2008 and made the final three before being eliminated by Triple H.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-royal-rumble-2008-breakdown/|title=The Royal Rumble 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=January 30, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> At [[No Way Out (2008)|No Way Out]] on February 17, he was part of the SmackDown [[Elimination Chamber]] Match and eliminated [[Viscera (wrestler)|Big Daddy V]], but was last eliminated by The Undertaker.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-no-way-out-2008-breakdown/|title=The No Way Out 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=February 20, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> At [[WrestleMania XXIV]] on March 30, he defeated [[Eddie Fatu|Umaga]] in an interpromotional match. After [[Shawn Michaels]] defeated Ric Flair in a Career Threatening match (forcing Flair to retire) later that night,<ref>{{cite news|first=Bryan|last=Robinson|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464438/results/|title=The End|access-date=June 25, 2008|date=March 30, 2008|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080405163833/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/matches/6464438/results/ |archive-date = April 5, 2008}}</ref> Batista began a feud with Michaels, calling him selfish and egotistical.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-smackdown-report-04-04-08/|title=411's WWE Smackdown Report 04.04.08|website=411Mania.com|last=Borchardt|first=Brad|date=April 4, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> The two faced off at [[Backlash (2008)|Backlash]] on April 27 with [[Chris Jericho]] as the special guest referee. Michaels won after faking a knee injury and performing [[Superkick|Sweet Chin Music]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/04/28/5407546.html | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120716191007/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/04/28/5407546.html | url-status = usurped | archive-date = July 16, 2012 | title = HHH reigns again after Backlash | date = April 28, 2008 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | publisher = [[Canadian Online Explorer]] | work = Slam! Sports | first = Dave | last = Hillhouse}}</ref> Batista then defeated Michaels at [[One Night Stand (2008)|One Night Stand]] on June 1 in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Container-based variations|stretcher match]], thus ending their feud.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2008/06/01/one-night-stand-wwes-best-this-year/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204213642/https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2008/06/01/one-night-stand-wwes-best-this-year/ |archive-date=December 4, 2022 | title = One Night Stand WWE's best this year | date = June 1, 2008 | access-date = August 5, 2008 | work = Slam Wrestling | first = Matt | last = MacKinder}}</ref>

On the June 23 episode of ''Raw'', Batista was drafted to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] [[WWE Brand Extension|brand]] during the [[2008 WWE Draft]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06232008/|title=A Draft Disaster|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|date=June 23, 2008|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|access-date=June 25, 2008}}</ref> After failing to win the World Heavyweight Championship from Edge at [[Night of Champions (2008)|Night of Champions]] on June 29,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-night-of-champions-2008-breakdown/|title=The Night of Champions 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=June 30, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> Batista attacked Edge the following night on ''Raw'', allowing [[CM Punk]] to cash in his [[Money in the Bank contract]] on Edge and win the World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-raw-report-06-30-08/|title=411's WWE Raw Report 06.30.08|website=411Mania.com|last=Wilcox|first=Daniel|date=June 30, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> This set up a title match between Batista and Punk at [[The Great American Bash (2008)|The Great American Bash]] on July 20 which ended in a double disqualification after Kane interfered and attacked both men.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-great-american-bash-2008-breakdown/|title=The Great American Bash 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=July 20, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', Batista and Punk had a rematch, Batista won by disqualification after he was attacked by JBL. As John Cena came to the ring to fight JBL, he inadvertently punched Batista as JBL ducked.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-raw-report-7-21-08/|title=411's WWE Raw Report 7.21.08|website=411Mania.com|last=Wilcox|first=Daniel|date=July 21, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> This started a program between Cena and Batista leading up to [[SummerSlam (2008)|SummerSlam]] on August 17, for which a match was made official by Raw general manager [[Mike Adamle]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-raw-report-7-28-08/|title=411's WWE Raw Report 7.28.08|website=411Mania.com|last=Wilcox|first=Daniel|date=July 28, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> This was the first time a match between the two would occur as they had each been on separate brands since they both debuted in 2002. On the August 4 episode of ''Raw'', Batista and Cena won the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] from [[Cody Rhodes]] and [[Ted DiBiase, Jr.|Ted DiBiase]], making Batista a three-time World Tag Team Champion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/08/05/6353831.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716012858/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/08/05/6353831.html |archive-date=July 16, 2012 |title=Raw: Rivalry grows between new tag champs|date=August 5, 2008|access-date=August 6, 2008|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports|first=Dale|last=Plummer}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/08042008/|access-date=August 5, 2008|date=August 5, 2008|last=Sitterson|first=Aubrey|title=Championship scramble|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> The next week on ''Raw'', Batista and Cena lost the World Tag Team Championship back to Rhodes and DiBiase.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/results/ |access-date=August 12, 2008 |date=August 11, 2008 |last=Sitterson |first=Aubrey |title=Bracing for a SummerSlam |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080514184356/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/results/ |archive-date=May 14, 2008}}</ref> After losing the titles, the two had to be separated by multiple officials. Batista defeated Cena at SummerSlam, legitimating injuring Cena's neck in the process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/matches/7719954/results/|access-date=August 25, 2008|date=August 17, 2008|last=Tello|first=Craig|title=Batista's blockbuster triumph|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080822055035/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/matches/7719954/results/ |archive-date = August 22, 2008}}</ref> 

Batista then competed in the World Heavyweight Championship championship scramble match at [[Unforgiven (2008)|Unforgiven]] on September 7 and was eight seconds away from being a four-time world champion, but Chris Jericho snuck in and pinned Kane in the waning seconds.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-unforgiven-2008-breakdown/|title=The Unforgiven 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=September 8, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> On October 26 at [[Cyber Sunday (2008)|Cyber Sunday]] on October 26, Batista defeated Jericho for his fourth World Heavyweight Championship in a match in which Stone Cold Steve Austin was voted in as the special guest referee.<ref name="WHCTitleMatch">{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/matches/7880726/results/ |title="Stunning" new champion |last=Tello |first=Craig |date=October 26, 2008 |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=October 27, 2008 |archive-date=September 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160920114305/http://www.wwe.com/shows/cybersunday/matches/7880726/results |url-status=dead }}</ref> Batista's reign, however, only lasted eight days when Jericho won the title back in a Steel Cage match on the [[List of WWE Raw special episodes|800th episode]] of ''Raw'' on November 3.<ref name="Y2JBatistaCage">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/11032008/|title=Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes|date=November 4, 2008|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|access-date=January 10, 2011}}</ref>

Batista then entered a feud with former Evolution partner, Randy Orton; at [[Survivor Series (2008)|Survivor Series]] on November 23, Batista led a team of himself, [[CM Punk]], [[Kofi Kingston]], [[Matt Hardy]], and [[Ron Killings|R-Truth]] to face the team of Randy Orton, [[Shelton Benjamin]], [[William Regal]], Cody Rhodes, and Mark Henry. Orton's team won with Orton pinning Batista, winning the match for his team.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-survivor-series-2008-breakdown/|title=The Survivor Series 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=November 27, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> His feud with Orton continued up to [[Armageddon (2008)|Armageddon]] on December 14 where Batista defeated Orton.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-armageddon-2008-breakdown/|title=The Armageddon 2008 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=December 15, 2008|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> On the December 15 episode of ''Raw'', Batista was put into a handicap match against [[The Legacy (professional wrestling)|The Legacy]] with John Cena as his partner. During the match, Orton struck Batista with a punt to the head. Batista was knocked out and put out of action indefinitely due to a [[Kayfabe|storyline]] head injury. WWE.com later reported that Batista elected to undergo surgery to repair a [[hamstring]] tear.<ref name="BatistaHamstring">{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/12222008/articles/batistahamsurgery|title=Batista undergoes hamstring surgery|date=December 27, 2008|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|access-date=December 27, 2008}}</ref> His hamstring was injured at SummerSlam, in the same match that John Cena was forced out of action with a neck injury. He was expected to be out of action for six to eight months.

==== WWE Champion (2009–2010) ====
Batista returned on the April 6, 2009 episode of ''Raw'' to save [[Triple H]], [[Shane McMahon]], and [[Vince McMahon]] from [[The Legacy (professional wrestling)|The Legacy]] ([[Randy Orton]], [[Cody Rhodes]] and [[Ted DiBiase Jr.|Ted DiBiase]]).<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/04062009/ | title = Raw Results, Bringing in the Big Guns | first = Aubrey | last = Sitterson| newspaper = Wwe |date = April 6, 2009 | access-date =January 11, 2011 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Vince McMahon then scheduled Batista to team up with WWE Champion Triple H and Shane McMahon to face The Legacy at [[Backlash (2009)|Backlash]] on April 26.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-raw-report-04-06-09/|title=411's WWE Raw Report 04.06.09|website=411Mania.com|last=Wilcox|first=Daniel|date=April 6, 2009|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> During the match, Batista had brought out a chair, but Triple H tried to stop him, so they would not get disqualified (which would have cost Triple H the championship). This distraction, however, cost Triple H his championship, after he lost it to Orton.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-backlash-2009-breakdown/|title=The Backlash 2009 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=April 29, 2009|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', Batista won a singles match against Big Show due to a distraction by John Cena, to become the number one contender for the WWE Championship at [[WWE Judgment Day (2009)|Judgment Day]] on May 17,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/411s-wwe-raw-report-04-27-09/|title=411's WWE Raw Report 04.27.09|website=411Mania.com|last=McNew|first=Rob|date=April 27, 2009|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> which he won by disqualification.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/the-judgment-day-2009-breakdown/|title=The Judgment Day 2009 Breakdown|website=411Mania.com|last=Dunn|first=J.D.|date=May 18, 2009|access-date=July 6, 2025}}</ref> Batista went on to defeat Orton in a rematch at [[Extreme Rules (2009)|Extreme Rules]] on June 7 in a Steel Cage match to capture his first [[WWE Championship]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/history/2009/matches/10253106/results/|access-date=January 11, 2011|date=June 7, 2009|last=Tello|first=Craig|title=Steel of fortune|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> However, on the June 8 episode of ''Raw'', Batista was to vacate the title due to a staged brutal attack by Orton and the Legacy. It was later revealed that Batista had suffered a legitimate torn left biceps similar to what he suffered in 2006. Legacy was given on-screen credit for his injury.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06082009/articles/woundedanimal | title = Raw Results, Wounded Animal |date = October 6, 2009 | access-date =October 7, 2009 | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref>

Batista returned on the September 14 episode of ''Raw'' with his arm still in a vice. [[Randy Orton]], assuming Batista was retiring, claimed that he ended Batista's career. Batista then removed his arm vice, which turned to be fake, and attacked Orton. He then stated that he would not retire, but move to [[SmackDown (WWE brand)|SmackDown]] instead. Later that night, he defeated Orton in a no-holds barred match which was to be his last match on ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/09142009/|title=Results: Live Raw Results|last=Adkins|first=Greg|date=September 14, 2009|access-date=January 10, 2011|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref>

Following his return to SmackDown, Batista defeated [[Unified WWE Tag Team Championship|Unified WWE Tag Team Champions]] [[Jeri-Show]] (Chris Jericho and Big Show) in singles competition.<ref name="Toronto">{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/09142009/|title=Skinning the snake|last=Adkins|first=Greg|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|date=September 14, 2009|access-date=September 25, 2009}}</ref><ref name="Hamilton">{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/09182009/|title=Consumed in controversy|date=September 18, 2009|last=Burdick|first=Michael|access-date=September 25, 2009|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> These two victories culminated in a tag team title match against Jeri-Show with his partner [[Rey Mysterio, Jr.|Rey Mysterio]] on October 4 at [[Hell in a Cell (2009)|Hell in a Cell]] on October 4, which Jeri-Show won.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sokol|first=Brian|title=Title changes highlight Hell in a Cell|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/10/05/11300786.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714103825/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/10/05/11300786.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|work=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=September 5, 2011}}</ref>

At [[Bragging Rights (2009)|Bragging Rights]] on October 25, Batista was unsuccessful in winning the World Heavyweight Championship in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|Fatal Four-Way match]] including CM Punk, Rey Mysterio, and champion The Undertaker. During the match, Mysterio broke up Batista's [[Pin (professional wrestling)|pin]] on The Undertaker costing him the match and the title. After the match (which The Undertaker won), Batista and Mysterio appeared to patch things up, but Batista said he was tired of coming so close only to be stabbed in the back and told Mysterio he was going to rip his head off. Batista proceeded to brutally attack Mysterio, turning heel for the first time since 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwebraggingrights/2009/fatal-four-way|title=World Heavyweight Champion The Undertaker def. CM Punk, Batista & Rey Mysterio (Fatal Four Way Match)|date=October 25, 2009|access-date=June 22, 2012|publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> 

Batista faced Mysterio on November 22 at [[Survivor Series (2009)|Survivor Series]], where Batista won via referee stoppage after delivering three ''Batista Bomb''s to Mysterio.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2009/matches/12447876|title=Batista def. Rey Mysterio|date=November 22, 2009|access-date=June 22, 2012|publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> Batista defeated Mysterio again in a street fight on the December 11 episode of ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/12112009/|title=Street Fight night|date=December 11, 2009|access-date=December 11, 2009|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> On December 13 at [[TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs (2009)|TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs]], Batista faced The Undertaker for the World Heavyweight Championship in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Weapon-based variations|Chairs match]]. Batista initially won the match and the title, but [[Professional wrestling authority figures#General managers 2|SmackDown General Manager]] [[Theodore Long]] reversed the decision because Batista had hit The Undertaker with a low blow behind the referee's back. The match was restarted with The Undertaker winning and retaining the championship.<ref name="WorldChampionship">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/history/2009/matches/12768186/results/|first=Mitch|last=Passero|title=Results: Deadman lays Batista to rest|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|date=December 13, 2009|access-date=December 14, 2009|archive-date=May 30, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160530052358/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/history/2009/matches/12768186/results/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Five days later, Batista lost to Mysterio in a number one contenders match for the World Heavyweight Championship;<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/12182009/|title=From here to Christmas|date=December 18, 2009|access-date=December 18, 2009|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref> Mysterio's title match against The Undertaker on the December 25 episode of ''SmackDown'' ended as a no-contest after interference from Batista.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/12252009/|title=DX-mas Night SmackDown|date=December 25, 2009|access-date=December 25, 2009|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]}}</ref>

At the [[Royal Rumble (2010)|Royal Rumble]] on January 31, 2010, Batista entered the Royal Rumble match at number 30, but failed to win as he was eliminated by John Cena.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2010/02/01/12692126.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150707142128/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2010/02/01/12692126.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 7, 2015|title=The 2010 Royal Rumble is Rated R in Atlanta|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|date=February 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.com|Canadian Online Explorer]]|access-date=February 10, 2010}}</ref> Batista then became involved in WWE Chairman [[Vince McMahon]] and [[Bret Hart]]'s rivalry by assisting McMahon in attacking Hart; John Cena attempted to save Hart, but was assaulted by Batista.<ref>{{cite web|title=RAW RESULTS – 2/1/10|date=February 1, 2010|author=Hunter Golden|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/1703-raw-results---2-1-10}}</ref> On February 21 at [[Elimination Chamber (2010)|Elimination Chamber]], as payment for Batista attacking Hart, McMahon allowed Batista to face Cena for the WWE Championship immediately after Cena won the title in an [[Elimination Chamber]] match. Batista won the match and thus his second WWE Championship, which resulted in Batista moving back to Raw.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/matches/13372766/results/ |title=Results:Intermittent reign |first= Greg |last=Adkins |date=February 21, 2010 |work=WWE.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100730102526/http://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/matches/13372766/results/ |archive-date=July 30, 2010 |access-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> On March 28 at [[WrestleMania XXVI]], Batista lost the WWE Championship to John Cena in a rematch, ending his reign at 35 days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/02222010/|title=Taking the bull by the horns| first=Greg|last=Adkins|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|date=February 22, 2010|access-date=March 29, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wwe.sify.com/shows/articles/Results_Cena_uncorks_the_Champ_pain-237900 |title=Results:Cena uncorks the "Champ pain" |first=Greg |last=Adkins |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |date=March 28, 2010 |access-date=March 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100401034622/http://wwe.sify.com/shows/articles/Results_Cena_uncorks_the_Champ_pain-237900 |archive-date=April 1, 2010}}</ref> Batista received his rematch for the title in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Last Man/Woman Standing match|Last Man Standing match]] on April 25 at [[Extreme Rules (2010)|Extreme Rules]], but was defeated by Cena after Cena duct-taped his legs around a ring post, preventing him from standing up.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/currentepisode/14041538|title=WWE Champion John Cena def. Batista (Last Man Standing Match)|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]|access-date=June 5, 2012|date=April 25, 2010}}</ref> Batista and Cena faced off once again for the WWE Championship on May 23 at [[Over the Limit (2010)|Over the Limit]], but he failed again to regain the title from Cena in an [["I Quit" match]], quitting as Cena threatened to give him the ''[[Professional wrestling throws#Fireman's carry takeover|Attitude Adjustment]]'' off the roof of a car. Cena did so anyway, throwing Batista off of the car and through the stage below.<ref>{{cite web|first=Matt|last=Bishop|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/05/23/14059136.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713195915/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/05/23/14059136.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Batista quits to end disappointing ''Over The Limit''|access-date=May 26, 2010|date=May 23, 2010|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports}}</ref>

The following night on ''Raw'', Batista opened the show in a wheelchair and claimed that he would be pursuing legal action against Cena and WWE for his injuries (which he revealed in 2014 to be a legitimate compression fracture of his L1 spine).<ref>{{cite web |title=Batista reveals why he returned to WWE |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgRspe1i7KE | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211027/ZgRspe1i7KE| archive-date=October 27, 2021|website=YouTube |author=WWE |date=January 22, 2014}}{{cbignore}}</ref> His promo was interrupted by new Raw General Manager Bret Hart, who ordered he face an injured Randy Orton to qualify for a shot at WWE Championship against Cena again at the new [[WWE Fatal 4-Way|Fatal 4-Way]] pay-per-view. Batista refused and quit the company after Hart named Orton winner by forfeit. His profile was subsequently moved to the alumni page on WWE's website.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/content/media/video/vms/raw/2010/may22-28/14559064 |title=Raw: Batista quits WWE after loss to John Cena at Over the Limit |work=WWE.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026090240/http://www.wwe.com/content/media/video/vms/raw/2010/may22-28/14559064 |archive-date=October 26, 2012 |access-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> He later said in an interview that he left WWE because he "did not like the direction the company was going in".<ref>{{cite web |author=WrestlingNewsWorld.com |url=http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/wwe-news/batista-makes-first-public-comments-since-leaving-wwe.php |title=Batista Makes First Public Comments Since Leaving WWE |publisher=Wrestlingnewsworld.com |access-date=August 4, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141019220841/http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/wwe-news/batista-makes-first-public-comments-since-leaving-wwe.php |archive-date=October 19, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Return to WWE (2014) ===
[[File:Batista at WrestleMania XXX.jpg|thumb|upright|left|Upon his return, Batista won the [[Royal Rumble (2014)|2014 Royal Rumble]] match and would go onto main event [[WrestleMania XXX]].]]
Batista made his return to WWE on the January 20, 2014, episode of ''Raw''. Despite returning as a face and winning the [[Royal Rumble (2014)|Royal Rumble]] on January 26,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_75809.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 1/20: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Batista returns, Lesnar, final Rumble PPV hype, Bryan explains his plot, more|website=pwtorch.com|access-date=December 10, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_75919.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - WWE ROYAL RUMBLE PPV RESULTS 1/26 (Hour 3): Royal Rumble vs. The Crowd main event match|website=pwtorch.com|access-date=December 10, 2019}}</ref> the live crowd reacted negatively towards Batista's win, as [[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]] did not take part in the match. Despite a positive reaction initially upon his return, the fans in attendance at the Royal Rumble rejected Batista in favor of Bryan and continued to boo him after [[Roman Reigns]] was last eliminated.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=WWE Royal Rumble PPV results 1/26 (Hour 3): Royal Rumble vs. The Crowd main event match|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_75919.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 28, 2014}}</ref> After the show went off the air, Batista mocked Bryan and gestured his [[The finger|middle finger]] at the crowd.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE news: Live Rumble report on Batista flipping off fans after winning the Rumble, more in-person notes|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_75955.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 28, 2014}}</ref> According to Batista, he thought a return as a face was a bad idea because of the fans being so invested in Daniel Bryan's "Yes Movement" storyline.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://podcastone.com/Talk-Is-Jericho|title=Talk Is Jericho Episode 69: Batista (Pt. 2)|publisher=[[PodcastOne]]}}</ref> At the [[Elimination Chamber (2014)|Elimination Chamber]] event on February 23 and on the February 24 episode of ''Raw'', Batista was heavily booed by the fans during matches against [[Alberto Del Rio]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mstarz.com/articles/26770/20140225/wwe-spoilers-batista-comments-fans-reaction-plus-update-john-cenas.htm |title=WWE Spoilers: Batista comments on fans' reaction to him, plus an update on John Cena's injury : TV |publisher=Mstarz |date=February 25, 2014 |access-date=August 4, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140705233652/http://www.mstarz.com/articles/26770/20140225/wwe-spoilers-batista-comments-fans-reaction-plus-update-john-cenas.htm |archive-date=July 5, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> thus resulting in Batista turning [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] on the February 28 episode of ''SmackDown''.<ref name="SLAM!">{{cite web|last=Plummer|first=Dave|title=Smackdown!: Batista claims he is The Man in Milwaukee|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/02/28/21503546.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140303204658/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2014/02/28/21503546.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=March 3, 2014|work=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=March 1, 2014}}</ref> The main event of [[WrestleMania XXX]] on April 6, originally Batista versus Randy Orton for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, was changed to a [[triple threat match]] after Bryan defeated Triple H at WrestleMania to qualify for the match. At WrestleMania, Bryan forced Batista to submit to win the title.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/30/daniel-bryan-randy-orton-batista-26178334|title=Daniel Bryan def. Randy Orton and Batista to become the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion|access-date=April 12, 2014|archive-date=February 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215155019/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/30/daniel-bryan-randy-orton-batista-26178334|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[File:Evolution 2014.jpg|thumb|right|Orton and Batista would later reunite with [[Triple H]] to reform [[Evolution (professional wrestling)|Evolution]] to feud with [[The Shield (professional wrestling)|The Shield]].]]
On the April 7 episode of ''Raw'', Batista and Orton teamed together to face [[The Usos]] for the [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|WWE Tag Team Championship]], but the match ended in a double count out.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-04-07/wwe-raw-results-26221495/page-5|title=Raw Results: WWE Tag Team Champions The Usos def. Randy Orton & Batista via Count-out|work=WWE |access-date=April 15, 2014}}</ref> Later that night, Batista and Orton, along with [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]], attacked Bryan before he was set to defend his title against Triple H. Before Triple H could defeat Bryan, [[The Shield (professional wrestling)|The Shield]] interrupted by spearing Triple H and taking out Batista, Orton and Kane, causing the match to end in a no-contest.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-04-07/wwe-raw-results-26221495/page-13|title=Raw results: Triple H def WWE World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan via Disqualification|publisher=WWE|access-date=April 15, 2014|archive-date=January 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107141104/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-04-07/wwe-raw-results-26221495/page-13|url-status=dead}}</ref> On the April 14 episode of ''Raw'', Batista, Triple H and Randy Orton came down to the ring to attack The Shield after their 11-on-3 handicap match, using the name and the theme of [[Evolution (professional wrestling)|Evolution]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-04-14/wwe-raw-results-26235639/page-13|title=Raw results: Evolution reforms to break The Shield; The Shield vs. Alberto Del Rio, Jack Swagger, Bad News Barrett, Alexander Rusev, Fandango, Rybaxel, Titus O'Neil went to a No Contest|publisher=WWE|access-date=April 15, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304061501/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-04-14/wwe-raw-results-26235639/page-13|url-status=dead}}</ref> At both [[Extreme Rules (2014)|Extreme Rules]] on May 4 and [[Payback (2014)|Payback]] on June 1, Evolution lost to The Shield.<ref>{{cite news|last=Clapp|first=John|title=The Shield def. Evolution|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2014/the-shield-evolution-26230042|access-date=May 4, 2014|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303173910/http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2014/the-shield-evolution-26230042|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Murphy|first=Ryann|title=The Shield def. Evolution (No Holds Barred Elimination Match)|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2014/the-shield-evolution-26301565|publisher=WWE|access-date=June 1, 2014|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303211007/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2014/the-shield-evolution-26301565|url-status=dead}}</ref> On the June 2 episode of ''Raw'', Batista quit WWE after Triple H denied him a shot at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 6/2: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – PPV fall-out, huge angle at the end of Raw, post-Raw coverage, MITB hype, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_78782.shtml|website=PWTorch.com|access-date=June 3, 2014}}</ref> Batista legitimately quit the WWE due to creative differences soon after.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kdramastars.com/articles/21831/20140512/batista-leaves-wwe-2014.htm|title=Batista Leaves WWE Before 'Payback 2014' PPV! 'The Animal' Quits Wrestling Again Due To Creative Differences And Payment Issues With The Company! CM Punk Scenario All Over Again?|date=May 12, 2014|access-date=February 16, 2015|publisher=K Drama Stars}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/474655-latest-on-batista-wwe-status|title=Update: The Very Latest on Batista's WWE Status, Why He and Other WWE Talents Are Currently Upset|date=May 5, 2014|access-date=April 11, 2015|newspaper=Wrestlezone|last=Paglino|first=Nick}}</ref>

=== Second return to WWE (2018–2019) ===
On October 16, 2018, Batista reunited with the rest of Evolution for an appearance on [[List of WWE SmackDown special episodes|''SmackDown''{{'}}s 1000th episode]], where Batista teased a match with [[Triple H]], as Triple H had never beaten Batista in singles competition.<ref>{{cite news|title=Evolution reunites: Triple H, Batista, Randy Orton & Ric Flair to appear at SmackDown 1000|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/evolution-reunites-smackdown-1000|access-date=September 29, 2018}}</ref> The storyline between them started on February 25, 2019, when Batista viciously attacked [[Ric Flair]] and repeatedly demanded "give me what I want" to Triple H, which became a popular phrase associated with Batista.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE RAW REPORT: GOOD NEWS FROM ROMAN REIGNS, ARE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS THE NEW CONTRACT SIGNINGS?, A REUNION?, AND MORE|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=124452&p=3|publisher=PWInsider|access-date=February 25, 2019}}</ref> At [[WrestleMania 35]], Batista and Triple H would face each other in a No Holds Barred with their careers on the line, where Batista lost after interference from Ric Flair.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|title=Triple H def. Batista (No Holds Barred Match)|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/wrestlemania-35/triple-h-vs-batista-results|work=WWE|date=April 7, 2019|access-date=April 8, 2019}}</ref> The next day, Batista announced his retirement from professional wrestling.<ref name="retire">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/04/08/wwe-wrestlemania-dave-bautista-batista-retirement|title=Dave Bautista Retires From Wrestling After Loss to Triple H|magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]]|first=Dan|last=Gartland|date=April 8, 2019|access-date=April 9, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/davebautista/status/1115144897357602816|title=Dave Bautista on Twitter: WWEUniverse Thank you for letting me entertain you. I love this business and whether you cheered me or jeered me, I'm grateful for being a small part of your life. I am officially retired from sports entertainment and I am grateful for every second of my amazing journey|first=Dave|last=Bautista|date=April 8, 2019|access-date=April 9, 2019|via=Twitter}}</ref>

On December 9, 2019, WWE officially announced that Batista would be inducted into the [[WWE Hall of Fame]] as a part of the Class of 2020.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-hall-of-fame/wwe-hall-of-fame-2020/article/batista-nwo-wwe-hall-of-fame-class-of-2020?sf225619489=1|title=Batista and The nWo to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame's Class of 2020|work=WWE|date=December 9, 2019|access-date=December 9, 2019|archive-date=April 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415195927/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-hall-of-fame/wwe-hall-of-fame-2020/article/batista-nwo-wwe-hall-of-fame-class-of-2020?sf225619489=1|url-status=dead}}</ref> The event was postponed due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] and it was announced that the class of 2020 would be inducted alongside the class of 2021 at the 2021 event. Prior to the event, however, he was removed from the list.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Major WWE Hall of Fame Inductee Removed From Class of 2020|url=https://comicbook.com/wwe/news/wwe-batista-hall-of-fame-removed-class-of-2021-wwe-thunderdome/|access-date=March 21, 2021|website=comicbook.com|date=March 21, 2021 }}</ref> He [[Twitter|tweeted]] to confirm his removal, citing previous obligations as the reason why he could not attend the 2021 event. He also said that WWE honored his request to induct him at a future ceremony.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=DaveBautista|author=Dave Bautista|number=1374461713827778575|date=March 23, 2021|title=To the WWE Universe Unfortunately due to previous obligations I am unable to be a part of the WWE HOF this year. By my request they have agreed to induct me at a future ceremony where I'll be able to properly thank the fans and people who made my career|access-date=March 23, 2021}}</ref>

==Professional wrestling style and persona==
[[File:BatistaBomb.jpg|upright|thumb|Batista performing his finishing move, the ''Batista Bomb'', on [[Dave Finlay|Finlay]] at a WWE [[house show]] in 2006]]
Upon his return to WWE in 2014, Batista was heavily booed by the crowd after winning the [[Royal Rumble (2014)|Royal Rumble]], despite playing a [[Face (professional wrestling)|heroic]] character.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2014/01/27/21426491.html |title = CANOE -- SLAM! Sports - Wrestling - PPVReports: Upset fans overshadow… |work=Slam! Wrestling |archive-url=https://archive.today/20141203234315/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2014/01/27/21426491.html |archive-date=December 3, 2014 |url-status=usurped}}</ref> In an interview with WWE.com, he said of the crowd reaction, "It was weird. It wasn't like a normal response. It was almost like a personal attack. It had to do with factors that were not in my control, factors and things that were going on in the company with other people, stuff that really had nothing to do with me. To me, it was a little frustrating, a little confusing, and, you know, I don't want to say I completely took it personal, but I did somewhat."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/batista-exclusive-interview|title=Exclusive interview: Batista tells all on his wild return|work=WWE|date=June 17, 2014|access-date=January 13, 2019}}</ref> The fan reaction caused storyline changes, with Batista turning into a [[Heel (professional wrestling)|villainous]] character.<ref name="SLAM!" /> Wrestling legend [[Mick Foley]] opined that Batista was "simply the wrong guy in the wrong place at the wrong time. Unfortunately for Dave, his return happened to be part of the perfect storm – the night WWE fans wanted [[Daniel Bryan]] – WWE Universe to walk out as the winner of the 2014 #RoyalRumble ...and would settle for nothing less."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2014/07/mick-foley-says-batista-deserved-better-578984/|title=Mick Foley Says Batista Deserved Better, Fans Were Wrong For Taking Their Anger Out On Him|work=Wrestling Inc.|date=July 14, 2014|access-date=June 8, 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/492529-batista-deserved-better|title=Mick Foley Says "Batista Deserved Better" Upon His Return to WWE|work=WrestleZone|date=July 14, 2014|access-date=June 8, 2025}}</ref>

Batista was declared the 50th greatest wrestling villain of all time by a WWE article in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/classics/classic-lists/top-50-wrestling-villains|title=Top 50 villains in wrestling history|website=[[WWE]]|date=July 26, 2012|access-date=August 20, 2018}}</ref> WWE has also ranked him as the second best [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Champion]] of all time.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/classics/15-greatest-world-heavyweight-champs|title=WWE's 15 best World Heavyweight Champions|work=WWE|first=Jeff|last=Laboon|date=August 24, 2012|access-date=January 13, 2019}}</ref> WWE advertised Batista as being 6&nbsp;ft 6 in tall and weighing 290 pounds, both of which are different from his real height of 6&nbsp;ft 4 in and unknown weight.<ref name="height">{{cite magazine |last1=Barasso |first1=Justin |date=August 10, 2020 |title=Dave Bautista's Role as Ex-Wrestler on HBO's 'Room 104' Goes to Unexpected Depths |url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2020/08/10/dave-bautista-acting-hbo-room-104 |access-date=May 17, 2021 |magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]]}}</ref><ref name="wwebio" />

== Mixed martial arts career ==
[[File:BautistaLucero.jpg|thumb|The closing moments of Bautista's win against Vince Lucero in 2012]]
After leaving WWE, Bautista attended [[Strikeforce: Los Angeles]] on June 16, 2010, having previously registered an interest in competing in MMA.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Dave-Bautista-109113|title=Dave Bautista|work=Sherdog.com|access-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> Five days later, he said that he would be embarking on an MMA career.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tmz.com/2010/06/21/dave-batista-wwe-mma-strikeforce-mixed-martial-arts/|title=Batista – I'm Fighting for REAL Now!|publisher=TMZ.com|date=June 21, 2010|access-date=January 8, 2014}}</ref> He became a [[BJJ belt|brown belt]] in [[Brazilian jiu-jitsu]] under [[Cesar Gracie Jiu-Jitsu|Cesar Gracie]].<ref name="brown">{{cite web |last1=de Souza |first1=Diogo |title=Actor And WWE Star Dave 'Batista' Bautista Promoted To BJJ Brown Belt |url=https://jitsmagazine.com/actor-and-wwe-star-dave-batista-bautista-promoted-to-bjj-brown-belt/ |website=Jitsmagazine |date=June 17, 2023 |access-date=June 17, 2023}}</ref> Bautista and [[Strikeforce (mixed martial arts)|Strikeforce]] agreed on a price and were negotiating a contract. However, in April 2011, Bautista stated that negotiations fell through when the organization was bought by the [[Zuffa]] company.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/news/321455/Batista-Strikeforce-deal-dead-due-to-UFC-buyout/ |title=Batista: Strikeforce deal dead due to UFC buyout |date=April 25, 2011 |publisher=mixedmartialarts.com |access-date=October 28, 2011}}</ref>

Bautista was expected to make his MMA debut against Rashid Evans{{efn|not to be confused with [[Rashad Evans]]}} on October 6, 2012, at CES MMA: Real Pain in Providence, Rhode Island.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mmamania.com/2012/7/13/3156784/ufc-wwe-champion-batista-mma-debut-rashid-evans-ces-rhode-island|title=Former WWE champ 'Batista' books pro MMA debut against Rashid Evans for October 6 in Providence |date=July 13, 2012 |publisher=mmamania.com |access-date=July 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://ressports.com/news/?article_id=1325|title=Former WWE Wrestler Bautista Inks MMA Deal|work=ResSports.com|date=August 13, 2012|access-date=August 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225081550/http://ressports.com/news/?article_id=1325|archive-date=December 25, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, on October 1, 2012, Evans was forced out of the bout after a probation violation landed him back in jail. Evans was replaced by journeyman and 40-fight veteran Vince Lucero. Bautista went on to win the fight by [[technical knockout]] (TKO) at 4:05 in the first round.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2012/10/1/3440914/dave-bautista-will-face-vince-lucero-in-mma-debut |title=Dave Bautista will face Vince Lucero in MMA debut |date=October 1, 2012 |publisher=mmafighting.com |access-date=October 2, 2012}}</ref>

== Acting career ==
[[File:Dave Bautista by Gage Skidmore 2.jpg|thumb|upright|Bautista at the 2016 [[San Diego Comic-Con]]]]
Bautista has acted in several television shows as both himself and his wrestling character. He guest starred in the eighth episode of [[Smallville season 6|season 6]] of ''[[Smallville]]'' as Aldar, an extraterrestrial who escaped from the [[Phantom Zone]] and who sucks the bones out of people for nourishment.<ref>{{cite web|last=Medalis |first=Kara A. |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/archive/batistasmallville2 |title=The Animal tames Smallville |publisher=WWE |date=October 25, 2006 |access-date=August 4, 2014}}</ref> In June 2009, he made a cameo appearance as himself on the Australian soap opera ''[[Neighbours]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://neighbours.com.au/Batista-Wrestles-With-Neighbours.htm |date=March 11, 2009 |publisher=[[Neighbours]] |title=Batista Wrestles With Neighbours|access-date=June 28, 2009}}</ref> In 2010, he appeared in an episode of ''[[Chuck (TV series)|Chuck]]'',<ref>{{cite web |author=WrestlingNewsWorld.com |url=http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/other-news/dave-batista-to-guest-star-on-chuck-this-fall.php |title=Dave Batista To Guest Star On Chuck This Fall |publisher=Wrestlingnewsworld.com |access-date=January 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140108031251/http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/other-news/dave-batista-to-guest-star-on-chuck-this-fall.php |archive-date=January 8, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and also made a cameo appearance in ''[[Relative Strangers]]''.<ref name="Manilla" /> He starred in the 2010 action film ''[[Wrong Side of Town]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.movieset.com/wrongsideoftown |publisher=MovieSet |title=Wrong Side of Town |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090527144821/http://www.movieset.com/wrongsideoftown |archive-date=May 27, 2009}}</ref> Bautista appeared as the villainous Brass Body in the [[Universal Pictures|Universal Studios]] film ''[[The Man with the Iron Fists]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/32155-dave-batista|title=Dave Bautista|work=tapology.com|access-date=January 18, 2017}}</ref>

Bautista played [[Drax (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Drax the Destroyer]] in the 2014 [[Marvel Studios]] film ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy (film)|Guardians of the Galaxy]]'', which was a critical and commercial success.<ref name="GotG">{{cite web |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/marvel-signs-wwes-dave-bautista-428724 |title=Marvel Signs WWE's Dave Bautista for 'Guardians of the Galaxy' (Exclusive) |first=Borys |last=Kit |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |date=March 14, 2013 |access-date=March 14, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130316005732/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/heat-vision/marvel-signs-wwes-dave-bautista-428724 |archive-date=March 16, 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> He played Mr. Hinx in the James Bond film ''[[Spectre (2015 film)|Spectre]]'' (2015),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.latino-review.com/news/exclusive-bags-bond-henchman-hinx-role-in-bond-24|title=Bautista will star in next James Bond movie|work=latino-review.com|date=October 13, 2014|access-date=October 13, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013132323/http://www.latino-review.com/news/exclusive-bags-bond-henchman-hinx-role-in-bond-24|archive-date=October 13, 2014}}</ref> and starred as the villain Tong Po in the reboot of the martial arts film ''[[Kickboxer (film)|Kickboxer]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2014/05/cannes-briefs-kickboxer-reboots-with-georges-st-pierre-dave-bautista-alain-moussi-warner-international-takes-relatos-salvajes-to-france-spain-lat-am-more-728636/|title=Cannes Briefs: 'Kickboxer' Reboots With Georges St Pierre, Dave Bautista, Alain Moussi; Warner International Takes 'Relatos Salvajes' To France, Spain, Lat Am; More|last=Tartaglione|first=Nancy|work=Deadline|date=May 9, 2014|access-date=May 9, 2014}}</ref> He was widely praised for his supporting role in ''[[Blade Runner 2049]]'' (2017).<ref>{{cite web|last1=Sharf|first1=Zack|url=https://www.indiewire.com/2021/05/dave-bautista-blade-runner-2049-better-career-marvel-1234637253/|title=Dave Bautista: 'Blade Runner 2049' Opened a Lot of Doors That 'Guardians' Didn't|publisher=[[IndieWire]]|date=May 13, 2021|access-date=February 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513221346/https://www.indiewire.com/2021/05/dave-bautista-blade-runner-2049-better-career-marvel-1234637253/|archive-date=May 13, 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Jang|first1=Meena|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/blade-runner-2049-reviews-what-critics-are-saying-1044367/|title='Blade Runner 2049': What the Critics Are Saying|work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date=September 29, 2017|access-date=February 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206195004/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/blade-runner-2049-reviews-what-critics-are-saying-1044367/|archive-date=February 6, 2022|url-status=live}}</ref> He reprised his role as Drax in ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2]]'' (2017),<ref name="GotG2">{{cite web |url=https://comicbook.com/2015/11/04/dave-bautista-says-james-gunn-making-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol/ |title=Dave Bautista Says James Gunn Making Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Different |last=Siegel |first=Lucas |publisher=Comicbook.com |date=November 4, 2015 |access-date=November 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106232438/http://comicbook.com/2015/11/04/dave-bautista-says-james-gunn-making-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol |archive-date=November 6, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Avengers: Infinity War]]'' (2018), and ''[[Avengers: Endgame]]'' (2019).<ref>{{cite news |title=Dave Bautista just revealed an Avengers 4 spoiler, is ready to reveal more |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/hollywood/dave-bautista-just-revealed-an-avengers-4-spoiler-is-ready-to-reveal-more/story-8muTPibM5wH4t4AkUUvnbO.html |newspaper=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=September 2, 2018}}</ref>

In 2018, Bautista joined his castmates in support of ''Guardians of the Galaxy'' director [[James Gunn]] after Gunn's firing over old [[Twitter|tweets]] joking about pedophilia and rape.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/guardians-of-the-galaxys-dave-bautista-not-ok-with/1100-6460620/y | publisher = GameSpot.com | first = Dan | last = Auty | date = July 30, 2018 | access-date =August 13, 2018 | title = Guardians Of The Galaxy's Dave Bautista "Not OK" With James Gunn's Firing}}</ref> He called Gunn's firing "nauseating" and declared that he would ask to be recast if [[Disney]], the parent company of [[Marvel Studios]], did not use Gunn's script for ''Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3''.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2018/08/dave-bautista-james-gunn-firing-disney | publisher = VanityFair.com | first = Yohana | last = Desta | date = August 6, 2018 | access-date =August 13, 2018 | title = Dave Bautista: What Disney Did to James Gunn Is "Nauseating"}}</ref> Gunn was reinstated as the film's director in March 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2019/03/james-gunn-reinstated-guardians-of-the-galaxy-3-disney-suicide-squad-2-indefensible-social-media-messages-1202576444/|title=Disney Reinstates Director James Gunn For 'Guardians Of The Galaxy 3'|last=Fleming|first=Mike Jr.|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=March 15, 2019|access-date=March 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190315181052/https://deadline.com/2019/03/james-gunn-reinstated-guardians-of-the-galaxy-3-disney-suicide-squad-2-indefensible-social-media-messages-1202576444/|archive-date=March 15, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2021, he confirmed that the upcoming ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3]]'' would be his final appearance as Drax.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dave Bautista won't star as Drax the Destroyer character after 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3'|url=https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/dave-bautista-quitting-guardians-of-the-galaxy-franchise-after-third|access-date=May 27, 2021|website=Fox News|date=May 24, 2021}}</ref>

Bautista starred in ''[[Army of the Dead]]'' (2021)<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dave Bautista To Star In Zack Snyder-Directed 'Army Of The Dead'|url=https://deadline.com/2019/04/dave-bautista-zack-snyder-army-of-the-dead-netflix-zombies-1202589488/|access-date=May 27, 2021|website=Deadline|date=April 5, 2019}}</ref> and had a villainous role in ''[[Dune (2021 film)|Dune]]'' (2021),<ref>{{cite magazine|last1=Holub|first1=Christian|url=https://ew.com/movies/dune-villains-dave-bautista-stellan-skarsgard/|title=Dave Bautista, Stellan Skarsgard discuss their roles as Harkonnens in Dune|magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|date=October 19, 2021|access-date=February 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019151227/https://ew.com/movies/dune-villains-dave-bautista-stellan-skarsgard/|archive-date=October 19, 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> which was released to critical and commercial success.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Richwine|first1=Lisa|url=https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/critics-say-dune-movie-will-thrill-ardent-fans-may-mystify-others-2021-09-03/|title=Critics say 'Dune' movie will thrill ardent fans, may mystify others|publisher=[[Reuters]]|date=September 3, 2021|access-date=February 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210912115018/https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/critics-say-dune-movie-will-thrill-ardent-fans-may-mystify-others-2021-09-03/|archive-date=September 12, 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Childress|first1=Erik|url=https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/weekend-box-office-results-dune-debuts-at-40-million-but-is-it-enough-to-secure-part-two/|title=Weekend Box Office Results: Dune Debuts at $40 Million, but Is It Enough to Secure Part Two?|publisher=[[Rotten Tomatoes]]|date=October 24, 2021|access-date=February 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105154635/https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/weekend-box-office-results-dune-debuts-at-40-million-but-is-it-enough-to-secure-part-two/|archive-date=November 5, 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> He also appeared as Duke in ''[[Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery]]'' (2022) and starred in [[M. Night Shyamalan]]'s horror film ''[[Knock at the Cabin]]'' (2023).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2021/12/dave-bautista-m-night-shyamalan-knock-at-the-cabin-1234885601/|title=Dave Bautista To Star In M. Night Shyamalan's Next Film 'Knock At The Cabin'|date=December 6, 2021|first=Justin|last=Kroll|website=Deadline Hollywood}}</ref> He appeared in the fantasy-adventure film ''[[In the Lost Lands]]'' (2025).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Dave Bautista Joins Knives Out 2|url=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/dave-bautista-joins-knives-out-2/|access-date=May 10, 2021|website=Empire|date=May 10, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2021/02/resident-evil-paul-ws-anderson-milla-jovovich-dave-bautista-george-rr-martin-lost-lands-movie-1234700894/|title='Resident Evil' Duo Paul W.S. Anderson & Milla Jovovich Team With Dave Bautista For George R.R. Martin Adaptation 'In The Lost Lands' — EFM|first=Andreas|last=Wiseman|website=Deadline Hollywood|date=February 5, 2021}}</ref>

== Other media ==
[[File:Batista-closeup.jpg|thumb|upright|Batista at a WWE meet and greet in 2005]]
Bautista appeared on the covers of the April 2005 ''[[Flex (magazine)|Flex]]'',<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.getbig.com/magazine/flex/flex0504.htm |title=Flex Magazine – April 2005 |work=GetBig.com |publisher=[[Flex (magazine)|Flex magazine]] |access-date=August 6, 2008}}</ref> and ''[[Muscle & Fitness]]'' for September 2008.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.lordsofpain.net/news/2008/articles/1214323781.php|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080627025951/http://www.lordsofpain.net/news/2008/articles/1214323781.php|url-status=dead|title=WWE News: Batista on the Cover of Muscle & Fitness, WWE Launches New Clothing Line|archive-date=June 27, 2008|access-date=December 10, 2019}}</ref> Along with [[John Cena]] and [[Ashley Massaro]], he appeared representing WWE on an episode of ''[[Extreme Makeover: Home Edition]]'' in January 2007, giving the kids of the family whose house was renovated WWE merchandise and eight tickets to [[WrestleMania 23]].<ref>{{cite video|title=John Cena, Batista, and Ashley on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition |url=http://www.wwe.com/content/media/video/specialty_clips/wwehomemakeover |medium=WMV |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=August 1, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070626131807/http://www.wwe.com/content/media/video/specialty_clips/wwehomemakeover |archive-date=June 26, 2007}}</ref>

According to the Wrestling Figure Checklist, Bautista had 171 action figures released in the 2000s and 2010s; most were released in the mid-to-late 2000s by [[Jakks Pacific]].<ref>Wrestling Figure Checklist</ref> He remarked on his 2007 appearance on [[MTV Cribs]], "I was trying to collect my action figures, but I gave up, there became too many".<ref>{{Cite web|date=May 18, 2008|title=Batista Shows Off An Odd Collection On MTV Cribs UK|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2008/05/batista-shows-off-an-odd-collection-on-mtv-cribs-uk-507610/|access-date=November 16, 2020|website=Wrestling Inc.}}</ref>{{better source needed|date=March 2024}}
[[File:Dave Bautista 2023.png|thumb|150px|left|Batista in 2023]]
On October 16, 2007, his autobiography, ''Batista Unleashed'', was released.<ref name="SLAM! Profile" /> In an interview about it, he claimed, "I didn't want to tell my story unless it was honest... You have to go through three sets of lawyers: Simon & Schuster lawyers, WWE lawyers, my lawyers. Everything now being the way it is, you can be sued for the simplest thing."<ref name="Bookinterview">{{cite news|url=http://www.miamiherald.com/675/v-print/story/290473.html |title=Batista's Book Speaks Volumes 10/31/2007 |newspaper=Miami Herald}}{{dead link|date=May 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> There was controversy over the book's mention of [[Chris Benoit]], a wrestler who [[Chris Benoit double-murder and suicide|killed his wife and strangled his son in a murder-suicide]], and about whom other details were removed from the book. Bautista said, "I loved the guy. I despise what he did, but that doesn't erase him from my life. I fought to keep him in there and am glad they did."<ref name="Bookinterview" />

When asked about his ex-wife, Angie, Bautista says, "[We] have really become close again, which we really haven't been in years. I really learned a lot about her, and she learned a lot about me from reading the book. She actually saw things from a different perspective from reading the book. So that was definitely therapeutic."<ref name="Bookinterview" /> Bautista held a campaign to raise money for [[Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance]] in 2010 because of Angie's ovarian cancer battle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Giri |first=Raj |date=August 4, 2010 |title=Batista Talks About Fighting Cancer And How He Got Started With The Project |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2010/08/batista-talks-about-fighting-cancer-and-how-he-got-started-530531/ |access-date=September 20, 2023 |website=Wrestling Inc.}}</ref>{{better source needed|date=March 2024}}

During the week of November 5, 2007, Bautista appeared on ''[[Family Feud]]'' with several other WWE wrestlers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/overtheropes/news/familyfeudpreview |first=Kara A. |last=Medalis |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |title=Tune in to WWE week on 'Family Feud' |access-date=November 4, 2007 |date=October 30, 2007}}</ref>

On September 7, 2008, he was a judge on an episode of ''[[Iron Chef America]]'', with snails as the theme ingredient.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/batista/photos01/ironchef/ |title=Batista on Food Network's "Iron Chef America," September 2008 |publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |access-date=October 30, 2008 |archive-date=April 29, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100429171236/http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/batista/photos01/ironchef/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Along with [[Candice Michelle]], [[Shelton Benjamin]], and [[Josh Mathews]], he represented the WWE at the [[2008 Democratic National Convention]] in an effort to persuade fans to register to vote in the [[2008 United States presidential election|2008 presidential election]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/overtheropes/wweconventions08/conventionspreview |title=WWE at the Democratic and Republican National Conventions|date=August 22, 2008|access-date=September 13, 2008|publisher=[[World Wrestling Entertainment]].com}}</ref> He has also appeared on ''[[MTV Cribs]]'' showing his house and cars.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tv.apple.com/gb/episode/104/umc.cmc.5df65louwdcs6uryqw0rz4g9h |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230223155027/https://tv.apple.com/gb/episode/104/umc.cmc.5df65louwdcs6uryqw0rz4g9h |archive-date=February 23, 2023 |title=Cribs UK S1 E4 WWE superstar wrestler Batista |work=[[Apple TV+|Apple TV]] |date=May 18, 2008 |access-date=February 23, 2023}}</ref> His first biographical DVD, ''Batista: I Walk Alone'', was released through WWE Productions on October 20, 2009. A second DVD, ''WWE Batista: The Animal Unleashed'' (released June 2014) continued his life story, detailing his departure from WWE in 2010 and his return to it in 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wweshop.com/item/batista-i-walk-alone-dvd/Batista/35-00677 |title=WWE Wrestling Superstar Merchandise, WWE Clothes, Action Figures & More |publisher=WWEShop |date=January 1, 1970 |access-date=January 8, 2014}}</ref>

== Personal life ==
[[File:Dave Bautista by Gage Skidmore.jpg|thumb|Bautista in July 2013]]
Bautista married his first wife, Glenda, in 1990. They had two daughters together, Keilani (b. 1990) and Athena (b. 1992), before they divorced in 1998.<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/43 43–44] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/43}}</ref> Bautista married his second wife, Angie, on October 13, 1998. They have a son together, Oliver,<ref name="tampa">{{cite web|url=https://www.tampabay.com/florida/2019/02/26/dave-bautista-does-not-want-to-be-a-movie-star/|title=Dave Bautista does not want to be a movie star|work=Tampa Bay Times|first=Christopher|last=Spata|date=February 26, 2019|access-date=March 22, 2019}}</ref> and divorced in 2006.<ref>{{cite journal | journal = [[WWE Magazine]] | publisher = [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] |date=August 2006 | title = Animal's House | pages = 54–58}}</ref> Before the age of 40, Bautista already had two grandsons through Keilani.<ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | page = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/212 212] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/212}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title = Batista Unleashed | first = Dave | last = Batista | author2 = Roberts, Jeremy | isbn = 978-1-4165-4410-4 | publisher = [[Simon & Schuster]] | pages = [https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/235 235–238] | date = October 2007 | url = https://archive.org/details/batistaunleashed00bati/page/235}}</ref> In October 2015, he married competitive pole dancer Sarah Jade.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/showbiz/a672589/guardians-of-the-galaxy-star-dave-bautista-gets-married/|title=Guardians of the Galaxy star Dave Bautista gets married|website=Digital Spy|first=Ben|last=Lee|date=October 10, 2015|access-date=March 22, 2019}}</ref> They separated in early 2019.<ref name="tampa" />

Bautista is {{convert|6|ft|4|in|m}} tall and weighed around {{convert|275|lb|kg}} as of August 2020, later slimming down to around {{convert|240|lb|kg}} by September 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-13 |title=Dave Bautista reveals he lost 75 pounds. These are his go-to workouts and diet tips |url=https://www.today.com/health/men-s-health/dave-bautista-weight-loss-rcna171074 |access-date=2024-09-16 |website=TODAY.com |language=en}}</ref> He has numerous tattoos, including a large dragon on his back, red [[kanji]] lettering on his upper left biceps which says "Angel" (in tribute to Angie), a signature design on his upper right biceps, and a small sun on his abdomen which encircles his navel.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.angelfire.com/me4/wrestlertattoos/wwf.html|title=Tattoos|publisher=[[Angelfire]]}}</ref> He also has a tattoo on his arm of the flags of [[Greece]] and the [[Philippines]]. While taking time off due to injury in 2009, he had both upper arms covered in large, tribal style tattoos, and the phrase "DC soldier" added to his right biceps.<ref>{{cite web|title=Batista – Big Arms, Big Tattoos|url=http://www.celebritytattoodesign.com/batista-tattoos|website=Celebrity Tattoo Design|access-date=February 16, 2015}}</ref> He once had a tattoo of a [[meteor]] on his arm, a logo associated with former friend [[Manny Pacquiao]], but had it [[cover-up (tattoo)|covered up]] with a [[sugar skull]] design after Pacquiao made [[homophobia|homophobic]] remarks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://talksport.com/sport/1296063/dave-bautista-manny-pacquiao-homophobe-tattoo-cover-up//|title=WWE legend and actor Dave Bautista got rid of Manny Pacquiao tattoo when he found out boxing legend was 'extreme homophobe'|first=Jordan|last=Ellis|work=[[Talksport]]|date=January 8, 2023|accessdate=June 1, 2024}}</ref> Beginning in 2010, Bautista began eating a mostly plant-based, [[pescetarian]] diet, and in 2021 planned to go completely [[vegan]] in the near future.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Rajneesh |title=David Bautista Shares His Diet and Training Routine, Plans To Go Vegan |url=https://fitnessvolt.com/david-bautista-diet-training-plan-vegan/ |website=Fitness Volt |date=October 14, 2021 |access-date=June 25, 2023}}</ref>

Bautista suffers from [[asthma]] and by his own admission used to hide inhalers in several places under the ring during his wrestling matches.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/dave-bautista-hid-inhalers-under-wrestling-rings-to-deal-with-his-asthma|title=Dave Bautista Hid Inhalers Under Wrestling Rings to Deal With His Asthma|work=[[IGN]]|date=October 6, 2020|access-date=June 8, 2025}}</ref>

A baseball fan, Bautista grew up following the [[New York Yankees]], although he has since embraced the [[Washington Nationals]], who play at [[Nationals Park]] blocks from Bautista's childhood home.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dc-sports-bog/wp/2017/05/15/guardians-of-the-galaxy-star-guarantees-the-nationals-will-never-have-a-giant-racing-trump/|newspaper=The Washington Post|title='Guardians of the Galaxy' star guarantees the Nationals will never have a giant racing Trump|first=Dan|last=Steinberg|date=May 15, 2017|access-date=January 4, 2023}}</ref>

Bautista supported [[Bernie Sanders]] in the [[2020 Democratic Party presidential primaries]].<ref>{{Cite tweet|number=1240122776863870980|title=For what it's worth I am in complete support of @SenSanders. I have been for a long time. I believe he is the only candidate that can get us back on track. I think he is the most honest Candidate. I think his biggest concern is the well-being of all Americans. My 2 cents.|date=March 17, 2020|user=DaveBautista|access-date=March 26, 2020}}</ref> He endorsed [[Joe Biden]] in the [[2020 United States presidential election]] and appeared in an ad for his [[Joe Biden 2020 presidential campaign|presidential campaign]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Mazza|first1=Ed|url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dave-bautista-joe-biden-endorsement_n_5f96669dc5b6a2e1fb62d1c7|title='Guardians Of The Galaxy' Star Dave Bautista Gives Biden A Ringing Endorsement|work=[[HuffPost]]|date=October 26, 2020|access-date=October 26, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Lambert|first1=Jeremy|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/batista-appears-political-ad-endorsing-joe-biden-president|title=Batista Appears In Political Ad Endorsing Joe Biden For President|publisher=Fightful|date=October 25, 2020|access-date=October 26, 2020}}</ref> In 2024, Bautista, who supported U.S. vice president and presidential candidate [[Kamala Harris]], filmed a video demeaning her opponent, [[Donald Trump]], for ''[[Jimmy Kimmel Live!]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Ucchino |first=Rick |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/wrestling/dave-bautista-eviscerates-donald-trump-in-video-appearance-on-jimmy-kimmel |title=Dave Bautista Eviscerates Donald Trump In Hilarious Video Appearance On Jimmy Kimmel |magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]] |date=October 17, 2024 |access-date=October 17, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.facebook.com/JimmyKimmelLive/videos/trump-gets-his-masculinity-checked-by-the-manliest-avenger-of-all/908280711201065/ |title=Trump Gets His Masculinity Checked by the Manliest Avenger of All! |work=[[Jimmy Kimmel Live!]] |date=October 16, 2024|access-date=October 17, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Bendix |first=Trish |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/16/arts/television/late-night-kimmel-trump.html |title=Jimmy Kimmel Bashes Trump's Bizarre Town Hall |work=[[The New York Times]] |date=October 16, 2024 |access-date=October 17, 2024}}</ref>

== Mixed martial arts record ==
{{MMArecordbox
|draws=
|nc=
|ko-wins=1
|ko-losses=
|sub-wins=
|sub-losses=
|dec-wins=
|dec-losses=
|dq-wins=
|dq-losses=
|other-wins=
|other-losses=
}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|1–0
|Vince Lucero
|TKO (punches)
|[[CES MMA#Pay-per-view debut|CES MMA: Real Pain]]
|{{dts|2012|October|6|format=mdy}}
|align=center|1
|align=center|4:05
|[[Providence, Rhode Island]], [[United States]]
| 
|-
{{end}}

==Filmography==
===Film===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Director 
! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
| 2006
| ''[[Relative Strangers]]''
| Wrestler
| [[Greg Glienna]]
| Uncredited cameo appearance 
|-
| 2009
| ''[[My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done]]''
| Police officer
| [[Werner Herzog]]
|
|-
| 2010
| ''[[Wrong Side of Town]]''
| Big Ronnie
| David DeFalco
|
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2011
| ''[[House of the Rising Sun (film)|House of the Rising Sun]]''
| Ray
| [[Brian A. Miller]]
|
|-
| ''{{sortname|The|Scorpion King 3: Battle for Redemption}}''
| Argomael
| [[Roel Reiné]]
|
|-
| 2012
| ''{{sortname|The|Man with the Iron Fists}}''
| Brass Body
| [[RZA]]
|
|-
| 2013
| ''[[Riddick (film)|Riddick]]''
| Diaz
| [[David Twohy]]
| 
|-
| 2014
| ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy (film)|Guardians of the Galaxy]]''
| [[Drax (Marvel Cinematic Universe)|Drax the Destroyer]]
| [[James Gunn]]
|
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2015
| ''[[L.A. Slasher]]''
| The Drug Dealer #1
| Martin Owen 
|
|-
| ''[[Spectre (2015 film)|Spectre]]''
| Mr. Hinx
| [[Sam Mendes]]
|
|-
| ''[[Heist (2015 film)|Heist]]''
| Jason Cox
| [[Scott Mann (director)|Scott Mann]]
|
|-
| rowspan="4"| 2016
| ''[[The Boss (2016 film)|The Boss]]''
| Chad
| [[Ben Falcone]]
| Uncredited cameo appearance 
|-
| ''[[Kickboxer: Vengeance]]''
| Tong Po
| [[John Stockwell (actor)|John Stockwell]]
|
|-
| ''[[Marauders (2016 film)|Marauders]]''
| Stockwell
| [[Steven C. Miller]]
|
|-
| ''[[The Warriors Gate]]''
| Arun the Cruel
| [[Matthias Hoene]]
|
|-
| rowspan="4"| 2017
| ''[[Bushwick (film)|Bushwick]]''
|Stupe
| Jonathon Milott & Cary Murnion 
| Also executive producer
|-
| ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2]]''
| Drax the Destroyer
| James Gunn
|
|-
| ''[[2048: Nowhere to Run]]''
| rowspan=2|[[List of Blade Runner characters#Sapper Morton|Sapper Morton]]
| [[Luke Scott (director)|Luke Scott]]
| Short film
|-
| ''[[Blade Runner 2049]]''
| [[Denis Villeneuve]]
|
|-
| rowspan="5"| 2018
| ''[[Avengers: Infinity War]]''
| Drax the Destroyer
| [[Anthony Russo (director)|Anthony Russo]] & [[Joe Russo (director)|Joe Russo]]
|
|-
| ''[[Hotel Artemis]]''
| Everest
| [[Drew Pearce]]
|
|-
| ''[[Escape Plan 2: Hades]]''
| Trent DeRosa
| [[Steven C. Miller]]
|
|-
| ''[[Final Score (2018 film)|Final Score]]''
| Michael Knox
| [[Scott Mann (director)|Scott Mann]]
| Also producer
|-
| ''[[Master Z: Ip Man Legacy]]''
| Owen Davidson
| [[Yuen Woo-ping]]
| Also producer
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2019
| ''[[Avengers: Endgame]]''
| Drax the Destroyer
| Anthony Russo & Joe Russo
|
|-
| ''[[Stuber (film)|Stuber]]''
| Det. Victor "Vic" Manning
| [[Michael Dowse]]
|
|-
| ''[[Escape Plan: The Extractors]]''
| Trent DeRosa
| [[John Herzfeld]]
|
|-
| 2020
| ''[[My Spy]]''
| JJ
| [[Peter Segal]]
| Also producer
|-
| rowspan="3"|2021
| ''[[Army of the Dead]]''
| Scott Ward
| [[Zack Snyder]]
|
|-
| ''[[Dune (2021 film)|Dune]]''
| [[Glossu Rabban]]
| Denis Villeneuve
|
|-
| ''[[Army of Thieves]]''
| Scott Ward
| [[Matthias Schweighöfer]]
| Cameo appearance
|-
| rowspan="2"|2022
| ''[[Thor: Love and Thunder]]''
| Drax the Destroyer
| [[Taika Waititi]]
| Credited as David Bautista
|- 
| ''[[Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery]]''
| Duke Cody<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/glass-onion-meet-the-characters-in-knives-out-sequel-exclusive/|title=''Glass Onion'': Meet The Characters Of Benoit Blanc's Next Case In ''Knives Out Sequel'' – Exclusive Images|date=August 29, 2022|first=Ben|last=Travis|website=[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]]|access-date=August 31, 2022}}</ref>
| [[Rian Johnson]]
|
|-
| rowspan="4"| 2023
| ''[[Knock at the Cabin]]''
| Leonard
| [[M. Night Shyamalan]]
| 
|-
| ''[[Parachute (film)|Parachute]]''
| Bryce
| [[Brittany Snow]]
| Cameo appearance 
|-
| ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3]]''
| Drax the Destroyer
| James Gunn
|
|-
| ''[[The Boy and the Heron]]''
| The Parakeet King (voice)
| [[Hayao Miyazaki]]
| English dub
|-
| rowspan="4"| 2024
| ''[[Dune: Part Two]]''
| Glossu Rabban
| Denis Villeneuve
|
|-
| ''[[My Spy: The Eternal City]]''
| J.J.
| Peter Segal
| Also producer
|-
| ''[[The Killer's Game]]''
| Joe Flood
| [[J. J. Perry]]
|
|-
| ''[[The Last Showgirl]]''
| Eddie
| [[Gia Coppola]]
| Won - Special Jury Prize{{efn|Shared with [[Kiernan Shipka]], [[Pamela Anderson]], [[Brenda Song]], [[Billie Lourd]] and [[Jamie Lee Curtis]]<ref name="Awards-72SSIFF">{{Cite web |title='Tardes de soledad' carries off the Golden Shell at the San Sebastian Festival's 72nd edition|url=https://sansebastianfestival.com/2024/news/1/22240/in|date=September 28, 2024|website=[[San Sebastián International Film Festival]]|archive-date=September 29, 2024|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240929011131/https://sansebastianfestival.com/2024/news/1/22240/in}}</ref>}} ([[72nd San Sebastián International Film Festival|San Sebastián International Film Festival]])
|-
| rowspan="4" | 2025
| ''[[In the Lost Lands]]''
| Boyce 
| [[Paul W. S. Anderson]]
| Also producer
|-
| ''[[The Naked Gun (2025 film)|The Naked Gun]]''
| Himself
| [[Akiva Schaffer]]
| Cameo appearance
|-
| ''[[Afterburn (2025 film)|Afterburn]]''
| Jake
| J. J. Perry
| Also producer
|-
| ''[[Trap House (film)|Trap House]]''
| Ray Seale
| [[Michael Dowse]]
| Also producer
|-
| rowspan="2" |2026
| {{Pending film|[[The Wrecking Crew (2026 film)|The Wrecking Crew]]}}
| James
| [[Ángel Manuel Soto]]
| Post-production; also producer
|-
| {{Pending film|[[The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender]]}}
| {{TBA}}
| [[Lauren Montgomery]]
| In production
|-
| rowspan="2" |TBA
| {{Pending film|[[Alpha Gang]]}}
| {{TBA}}
| [[David Zellner]] & Nathan Zellner
| Post-production
|-
| {{Pending film|[[Road House 2 (upcoming film)|Road House 2]]}}
| {{TBA}}
| [[Ilya Naishuller]]
| Filming
|-
|}

===Television===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
! Year
! Title
! Role 
! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
| 2006
| ''[[Smallville]]''
| Aldar
| Episode: "Static"
|-
| 2007
| ''[[Extreme Makeover: Home Edition]]''		
| rowspan="3"| Himself
| Episode: The Noyola Family
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2009 
| ''[[Head Case]]''
| Episode: "All About Steve"
|-
| ''[[Neighbours]]''
| Episode: "1.5719"
|-
| 2010
| ''[[Chuck (TV series)|Chuck]]''
| T.I.
| Episode: "[[Chuck Versus the Couch Lock]]"
|-
| 2015
| ''[[TripTank]]''
| Delivery Guy (voice)
| Episode: "Short Change"
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2019
| ''[[What We Do in the Shadows (TV series)|What We Do in the Shadows]]''
| Garrett
| Episode: "[[The Trial (What We Do in the Shadows)|The Trial]]"
|-
| ''[[Running Wild with Bear Grylls]]''
| rowspan="2"| Himself
| Episode: "Dave Bautista"
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2020
| ''Undertaker: The Last Ride'' 
| Documentary series 
|-
| ''[[Home Movie: The Princess Bride]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2020/06/the-princess-bride-homemade-fan-film|title=Watch the Celebrity-Filled Fan-Film Version of The Princess Bride|website=[[Vanity Fair (magazine)|Vanity Fair]]|first=Anthony|last=Breznican|date=June 26, 2020|access-date=June 26, 2020}}</ref>
| Fezzik
| 
|-
| ''[[Room 104]]''
| Doug "Raw Dog Avalanche"
| Episode: "Avalanche"
|-
| 2021
| ''[[See (TV series)|See]]''
| Edo Voss
| Main role, 8 episodes (season 2)
|-
| 2022
| ''[[The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special]]''
| Drax the Destroyer
| Television special
|-
| 2023 
| ''[[Marvel Studios: Assembled]]'' || Himself || Episode: "The Making of ''Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3'' "
|}

== Video games ==
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|- style="text-align:center;"
! colspan=4 style="background:#B0C4DE;" | WWE Video Games
|- style="text-align:center;"
! style="background:#ccc;" | Year
! style="background:#ccc;" | Title
! style="background:#ccc;" | Role
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2003
| ''[[WWE WrestleMania XIX (video game)|WWE WrestleMania XIX]]''
| Video game debut
|-
| ''[[WWE Raw 2]]''
| 
|-
| ''[[WWE SmackDown! Here Comes the Pain]]''
| 
|-
| rowspan="3"| 2004
| ''[[WWE Day of Reckoning]]''
|
|-
| ''[[WWE Survivor Series (video game)|WWE Survivor Series]]''
| 
|-
| ''[[WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw]]''
|
|-
| rowspan="4"| 2005
| ''[[WWE WrestleMania 21 (video game)|WWE WrestleMania 21]]''
|
|-
| ''[[WWE Aftershock]]''
| 
|-
| ''[[WWE Day of Reckoning 2]]''
|
|-
| ''[[WWE SmackDown! vs. Raw 2006]]''
| Cover athlete
|-
| 2006
| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007]]''
| Cover athlete (NTSC version)
|-
| 2007
| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008]]''
|
|-
| 2008
| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009]]''
|
|-
| 2009
| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010]]''
|
|-
| 2010
| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011]]''
|
|-
| 2011
| ''[[WWE '12]]''
| Downloadable content
|-
| 2013
| ''[[WWE 2K14]]''
|
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2014
| ''[[WWE SuperCard]]''
|
|-
| ''[[WWE 2K15]]''
|
|-
| rowspan="2"| 2015
| ''[[WWE Immortals]]''
|
|-
| ''[[WWE 2K16]]''
|
|-
| 2017
| ''[[WWE 2K18]]''
| Downloadable content
|-
| 2018
| ''[[WWE 2K19]]''
|
|-
| 2019
| ''[[WWE 2K20]]''
|
|-
| 2020
| ''[[WWE 2K Battlegrounds]]''
|
|-
| 2022
| ''[[WWE 2K22]]''
|
|-
| 2023
| ''[[WWE 2K23]]''
|
|-
|2024
|''[[WWE 2K24]]''
|
|-
|2025
|''[[WWE 2K25]]''
|
|}

== Theme park attractions ==
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|+
! style="background:#ccc;" | Year
! style="background:#ccc;" | Title
! style="background:#ccc;" | Role
! style="background:#ccc;" | Venue
|-
| 2017
| [[Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!|''Guardians of the Galaxy'' – Mission Breakout!]]
| rowspan="2"| Drax the Destroyer
| [[Disney California Adventure]]
|-
| 2022
| ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind]]''
| [[Epcot]]
|}

== Championships and accomplishments ==
[[File:Batista with World Heavyweight Championship.jpg|thumb|right|upright|Batista during his first World Heavyweight Championship reign]]

=== Professional wrestling ===
* '''''[[The Baltimore Sun]]'''''
** Feud of the Year (2007) {{small|vs. [[The Undertaker]]}}<ref name="Baltimore2007">{{cite web|last=Eck|first=Kevin|title=2007 Awards|url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/bs-mtblog-2007-12-2007_awards-story.html|work=[[The Baltimore Sun]]|date=December 30, 2007|access-date=September 25, 2020|archive-date=October 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026135318/https://www.baltimoresun.com/bs-mtblog-2007-12-2007_awards-story.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* '''[[Ohio Valley Wrestling]]'''
** [[OVW Heavyweight Championship]] ([[OVW Heavyweight Championship#Title history|1 time]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestling-titles.com/us/ky/ovw/ovw-h.html#last|title=O.V.W. Heavyweight Title|access-date=July 19, 2007|publisher=Wrestling-Titles.com}}</ref>
* '''''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]'''''
** [[List of Pro Wrestling Illustrated awards#Most Improved Wrestler of the Year|Most Improved Wrestler of the Year]] (2005)<ref name="PWI Awards">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwi-online.com/pages/PWIawards.html|title=PWI Awards|work=[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]|publisher=[[Kappa Publishing Group]]|access-date=January 18, 2017|archive-date=January 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121172943/http://www.pwi-online.com/pages/PWIawards.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
** [[List of Pro Wrestling Illustrated awards#Wrestler of the Year|Wrestler of the Year]] (2005)<ref name="PWI Awards" />
** Ranked No. 1 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the ''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated#PWI 500|PWI 500]]'' in 2005<ref>{{cite web|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2005|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2005.html|publisher=The Internet Wrestling Database|access-date=September 30, 2013}}</ref>
*'''[[Power Pro Wrestling]]'''
**[[Power Pro Wrestling Television Championship|PPW Television Championship]] ([[Power Pro Wrestling Television Championship#Title History|1 time]])<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1879|title=PPW Television Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}}</ref>
* '''[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE]]'''
** [[WWE Championship]] ([[List of WWE Champions|2 times]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship/10437632|access-date=January 26, 2009|title=Batista's first WWE Championship reign|publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090611184303/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship/10437632|archive-date=June 11, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship/20100221|title=Batista's second WWE Championship reign|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100225105911/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/wwechampionship/20100221|archive-date=February 25, 2010}}</ref>
** [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] ([[List of World Heavyweight Champions (WWE, 2002–2013)|4 times]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/304454142|title=Batista's first World Heavyweight Championship reign |access-date=September 19, 2007 |publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011022818/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/304454142|archive-date=October 11, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/243931811 |title=Batista's second World Heavyweight Championship reign|access-date=September 19, 2007|publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071011022818/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/243931811|archive-date=October 11, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/50797501 |title=Batista's third World Heavyweight Championship reign|access-date=September 19, 2007|publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071123141313/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/50797501|archive-date=November 23, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/20081026Batista|access-date=October 28, 2008|title=Batista's fourth World Heavyweight Championship reign|publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081030053637/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/20081026Batista|archive-date=October 30, 2008}}</ref>
** [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of World Tag Team Champions (WWE, 1971–2010)|3 times]]) – with [[Ric Flair]] (2)<ref name="WT1" /><ref name="WT2" /> and [[John Cena]] (1)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/09082007111|access-date=August 5, 2008|title=Batista and John Cena's first World Tag Team Championship reign|publisher=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080808032524/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/09082007111|archive-date=August 8, 2008}}</ref>
** [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|WWE Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of World Tag Team Champions (WWE)|1 time]]) – with [[Rey Mysterio]]<ref name="WWEtag" />
** [[Royal Rumble]] ([[Royal Rumble (2005)|2005]], [[Royal Rumble (2014)|2014]])<ref name="wwebio" />
* '''[[World Xtreme Wrestling]]'''
** Hall of Fame (2013)<ref>{{cite web|title=SUPERSTARS|url=https://www.wxwwrestling.com/superstars.html|work=[[World Xtreme Wrestling]]|access-date=September 24, 2020}}</ref>
* '''''[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]'''''
** [[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Feud of the Year|Feud of the Year]] (2005) {{small|vs. [[Triple H]]}}<ref name="WON2010">{{cite magazine|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|author-link=Dave Meltzer|date=January 26, 2011|title=Biggest issue of the year: The 2011 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards Issue|magazine=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]|location=Campbell, CA|pages=1–40|issn=1083-9593}}</ref>
** Feud of the Year (2007) {{small|vs. The Undertaker}}<ref name="WON2010" />
** [[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Most Overrated|Most Overrated]] (2006)<ref name="WON2010" />

== Awards and nominations ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Year
!Award
!Category
!Work
!Result
!Ref.
|-
|2011
|[[Action On Film International Film Festival]]
|Performer of the year
|[[House of the Rising Sun (film)|''House of the Rising Sun'']]
|{{Won}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wayback Machine |url=https://www.aoffest.com/pdf/AOF-2011-Film-Video-Award-Winners.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120409151332/https://www.aoffest.com/pdf/AOF-2011-Film-Video-Award-Winners.pdf |archive-date=2012-04-09 |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=www.aoffest.com}}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="3" |2014
|[[Nevada Film Critics Society]]
| rowspan="5" |Best Ensemble Cast
| rowspan="4" |[[Guardians of the Galaxy (film)|''Guardians of the Galaxy'']] 
|{{Won}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Nevada Film Critics Society's 2014 Awards for Achievement in Film |url=https://www.nevadafilmcriticssociety.org/index.php/nevada-film-critics-society-awards/73-the-nevada-film-critics-societys-2014-awards-for-achievement-in-film |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=www.nevadafilmcriticssociety.org}}</ref>
|-
|[[Detroit Film Critics Society Awards]]
|{{Won}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Haskell |first=Christopher |date=2014-12-20 |title=Oscars Watch: 2014 Detroit Film Critics Society Awards |url=https://nobadmovie.com/2014/12/19/oscar-season-detroit-film-critics-society-awards/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=No Bad Movie |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|Phoenix Film Critics Society Awards
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Society |first=Phoenix Film Critics |title=Phoenix Film Critics Society |url=https://phoenixfilmcriticssociety.org/past-pfcs-awards |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=Phoenix Film Critics Society |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|2015
|Central Ohio Film Critics Association
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Awards 2015 |url=https://cofca.org/awards-2015/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=COFCA |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" |2023
|[[Gold Derby Awards]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery|''Glass Onion'']]
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ford |first=Daniel Montgomery,Chris Beachum,Marcus James Dixon,Denton Davidson,Ray Richmond,Christopher Rosen,Joyce Eng,Latasha |date=2023-08-16 |title=2023 Gold Derby TV Awards ceremony: ‘Succession’ wins 7, ‘The Bear’ takes 4, Pedro Pascal is Performer of the Year [WATCH] |url=https://www.goldderby.com/feature/2023-gold-derby-tv-awards-winners-list-1205521779/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=Gold Derby |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|CinEuphoria Awards
|Best Supporting Actor - International Competition
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Awards and Nominations |url=https://markbliss.com/awards-and-nominations/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=Mark Bliss ACS |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|[[4th Critics' Choice Super Awards|2024]]
|[[Critics' Choice Super Awards|Critics Choice Super Awards]]
|Best Actor in a Horror Moivie
| rowspan="2" |''[[Knock at the Cabin]]''
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davis |first=Clayton |date=2024-04-04 |title=Tom Cruise, Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone and ‘Godzilla Minus One’ Among Critics Choice Super Awards Winners |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/awards/critics-choice-super-awards-2024-winners-pedro-pascal-1235960482/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=Variety |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|[[2024 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards|2024]]
|[[Fangoria Chainsaw Awards]]
|Best Supporting Performance 
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melanson |first=Angel |date=2024-10-13 |title=What A Bloodbath: Here Are The 2024 FANGORIA CHAINSAW AWARDS Winners |url=https://www.fangoria.com/2024-fangoria-chainsaw-awards-winners/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
|2025
|[[Gold Derby Awards]]
|Best Ensemble Cast
|''[[Dune: Part Two]]''
|{{Nom}}
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Beachum |first=Chris |date=2025-08-18 |title=2025 Gold Derby TV Awards: ‘Squid Game,’ ‘Agatha All Along,’ ‘Adolescence’ dominate winners’ list |url=https://www.goldderby.com/tv/2025/2025-gold-derby-tv-awards-complete-list-winners/ |access-date=2025-11-06 |website=Gold Derby |language=en-US}}</ref>
|}

==See also==
'''Notes'''
{{notelist}}

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Dave Bautista}}
{{Wikiquote}}
* {{IMDb name|1176985|Dave Bautista}}
* {{Professional wrestling profiles}}

{{Navboxes
|list1=
{{WWE Championship}}
{{World Heavyweight Championship (WWE)}}
{{World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 2024–present)}}
{{World Tag Team Championship (WWE)}}
{{Royal Rumble winners}}
{{The Authority (professional wrestling)}}
{{OVW Heavyweight Championship}}
}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Bautista, Dave}}
[[Category:1969 births]]
[[Category:21st-century American male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century male professional wrestlers]]
[[Category:21st-century American professional wrestlers]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American collectors]]
[[Category:American male actors of Filipino descent]]
[[Category:American male film actors]]
[[Category:American male mixed martial artists]]
[[Category:American male television actors]]
[[Category:American male video game actors]]
[[Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing wrestling]]
[[Category:Mixed martial artists utilizing Brazilian jiu-jitsu]]
[[Category:American male professional wrestlers]]
[[Category:American people of Greek descent]]
[[Category:American practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu]]
[[Category:American people of Filipino descent]]
[[Category:American professional wrestlers of Asian descent]]
[[Category:Sportspeople of Filipino descent]]
[[Category:Male actors from Tampa, Florida]]
[[Category:Male actors from Washington, D.C.]]
[[Category:People from Arlington County, Virginia]]
[[Category:Professional wrestlers from Washington, D.C.]]
[[Category:Professional wrestlers who competed in MMA]]
[[Category:The Authority (professional wrestling) members]]
[[Category:World Heavyweight Champions (WWE)]]
[[Category:WWE Champions]]
[[Category:OVW Heavyweight Champions]]
[[Category:Royal Rumble match winners]]
[[Category:World Tag Team Champions (WWE, 1971–2010)]]
[[Category:World Tag Team Champions (WWE)]]
[[Category:20th-century American sportsmen]]
[[Category:WWE personnel]]