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Despite the 1980s and 1990s being regarded as the golden eras of wrestling, the stars of the 2000s also left a significant mark on the industry, becoming icons in their own right. The digital age has allowed fans to easily access thousands of hours of wrestling content, preserving the legacies of these athletes.
The early 2000s were a unique time for wrestling fans, especially with the fall of WCW and ECW. While some fans sought alternatives like Ring of Honor and TNA, those loyal to WWE have a nostalgic fondness for this edgier era. Yet, the period also saw the rise of legends such as John Cena, Kurt Angle, and Randy Orton, alongside indie stars like Bryan Danielson, Samoa Joe, and AJ Styles. Some wrestlers, however, have faded into obscurity, and here’s a look at five notable figures from that decade and their current endeavors.
Yoshihiro Tajiri: Known for his time in ECW and later WWE, Tajiri was famous for his unique wrestling style and comedic presence. He funneled his ferocity into performances, winning multiple championships across various promotions. Tajiri made a brief return to WWE in 2016, and he continues to entertain fans through appearances, including a recent reunion in January 2025.
Maven: A product of the reality TV show "Tough Enough," Maven became a WWE star between 2001 and 2005. He made headlines by eliminating The Undertaker from the Royal Rumble and captured several titles during his tenure. Nowadays, Maven runs a successful YouTube channel with over 700,000 subscribers, candidly sharing insights about his wrestling career while occasionally making cameo returns to the ring.
Stacy Keibler: Emerging as Miss Hancock in WCW and later flourishing in WWE, Keibler became a beloved figure in the Diva division. Beyond wrestling, she gained fame as a model and actress, even dating George Clooney. Since her WWE Hall of Fame induction in 2019, Keibler has focused on family, building a social media presence as an influencer and brand ambassador.
Muhammad Hassan: Hassan’s career serves as a cautionary tale. Once embraced for his controversial character, his storyline took a drastic turn after a poorly timed angle led to his release from WWE. However, he found a new path as an educator and is now a head of human resources for a school district, showing a remarkable shift from wrestling to the educational field.
Batista: Rising through the ranks of Ohio Valley Wrestling with other icons, Batista made a significant impact in WWE with multiple championship wins. After stepping away from wrestling due to injuries, he successfully transitioned into acting, featuring prominently in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and other major film franchises, earning critical acclaim along the way.
In summary, the journeys of these wrestlers reflect the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling and show how careers can shift dramatically after leaving the ring. For wrestling fans, these narratives underscore the sport’s lasting influence and the potential for its stars to shine in new arenas, highlighting the importance of these figures in both the wrestling world and beyond.
Fan Take: The journeys of these former stars illustrate the multifaceted nature of wrestling careers, reminding fans of their favorite athletes’ rich legacies. As these wrestlers carve out new paths, it not only honors their pasts but also enriches the wrestling community’s appreciation for their impact both inside and outside the ring.
