WWE Superstars Who Debuted in WWE But Found More Success Elsewhere

WWE is known as the premier destination for professional wrestling, but not every Superstar who made their debut there has stayed with the company long-term. Some have ventured beyond the squared circle to find greater success in other wrestling promotions or entirely different industries. While WWE offers a platform for talent to shine, many Superstars discovered that their skills and charisma could make them stars in other arenas. From rival promotions to Hollywood, these wrestlers have managed to carve out significant careers outside of WWE, proving that success is not confined to just one company. Let’s take a look at WWE Superstars who initially appeared in WWE but found greater success elsewhere.

1. Mick Foley – From Hardcore Legend to Author and Actor

Mick Foley’s journey in WWE was legendary. Known for his hardcore wrestling style and iconic personas like Mankind, Foley fascinated fans with his willingness to take brutal bumps. He first debuted in WWE in 1996, bringing a fresh level of intensity to the ring. Despite his popularity, it was his ventures outside of wrestling that really showcased his versatility. After retiring from active competition, Foley expanded his career into acting, stand-up comedy, and writing.

Success Beyond WWE:

Foley’s most notable success outside WWE has been his career as an author. His autobiography, Have a Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks, became a bestseller and solidified his position as a beloved figure in wrestling and beyond. He went on to write several more books, including children’s novels, fiction, and even more memoirs. His storytelling ability, honed in the ring, translated well into the written word, earning him respect as an author.

In addition to his literary work, Foley made appearances in Hollywood, with roles in TV shows and movies. His distinctive voice also led to voice-over work, most notably in the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw video game series. Mick Foley’s success outside of WWE proves that his talents extend far beyond the wrestling ring.

2. CM Punk – From Wrestling to MMA and Media

CM Punk was one of WWE’s most polarizing figures, known for his sharp tongue and impressive in-ring skills. His debut in WWE in 2006 quickly turned him into a fan favorite, thanks to his rebellious attitude and unique style. However, Punk’s relationship with the company became strained, leading to his departure in 2014.

Success Beyond WWE:

While many fans were disappointed by his exit from WWE, CM Punk quickly transitioned to other ventures, including a career in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Punk signed with the UFC in 2014, where he hoped to achieve success in the fighting world, despite having no professional MMA experience. Though his time in UFC was marked by mixed results, his venture into the sport was a testament to his resilience and willingness to challenge himself outside of professional wrestling.

Additionally, CM Punk found a new audience through his involvement in comic books. He authored several comic book series for Marvel Comics, showcasing his writing talent in a completely different medium. Punk also made a return to wrestling with AEW (All Elite Wrestling), where he revitalized his career and proved that his presence in the wrestling industry was far from over.

3. Chris Jericho – The Renaissance Man of Wrestling

Chris Jericho is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, with a career that has spanned multiple decades and promotions. Jericho debuted in WWE in 1999, where he immediately captured the spotlight with his larger-than-life personality and incredible in-ring skills. Over the years, Jericho became a WWE legend, winning numerous titles and accolades.

Success Beyond WWE:

Despite his success in WWE, Jericho found even more opportunities beyond the company. One of his most notable achievements was his move to AEW, where he became one of the founding stars of the promotion. His transition to AEW showcased his ability to adapt and succeed in a new environment while still keeping his signature style intact.

But Jericho’s talents extend beyond wrestling. He has become a successful musician as the lead singer of the band Fozzy. The band has released multiple albums, toured the world, and developed a significant fanbase. Jericho’s musical career has complemented his wrestling persona, making him a true Renaissance man in entertainment.

Beyond music, Jericho has also ventured into podcasting, where he runs Talk Is Jericho, a popular show that features interviews with various celebrities and wrestlers. His charisma and multifaceted career have allowed Jericho to transcend the wrestling world, turning him into an internationally recognized personality.

4. Kurt Angle – Olympic Gold Medalist and Hollywood Actor

Kurt Angle’s impact on WWE is undeniable. After making his debut in 1999, he quickly became one of the company’s most celebrated Superstars. Known for his incredible wrestling technique and comedic timing, Angle captured multiple championships in WWE, including the coveted WWE Championship. His transition to WWE was a major turning point in his career, but his background in amateur wrestling and Olympic gold medal gave him a unique edge in the professional wrestling world.

Success Beyond WWE:

While Angle’s wrestling legacy in WWE is secure, he found even more opportunities after leaving the company. His Olympic gold medal in freestyle wrestling made him a national hero, and he became a respected figure outside of the professional wrestling world. His success as an Olympic athlete helped solidify his credibility when he took on roles in acting.

Kurt Angle began pursuing an acting career, landing roles in films and television shows. His appearances in movies like Warrior and Pain & Gain showcased his range as an actor and added another layer to his impressive résumé. Angle’s real-life persona as an elite athlete and champion translated well into the action movie genre, where his credibility as a tough, skilled fighter made him a natural fit.

Additionally, Angle continued his wrestling career in TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling), where he enjoyed success and added another dimension to his career. Although he remained connected to the wrestling world, Kurt Angle’s expansion into acting and other industries demonstrated his versatility and ability to thrive in various environments.

Final Thoughts

While WWE is often considered the pinnacle of professional wrestling, the Superstars mentioned above found even more success outside the company. Whether they pursued acting, music, or other ventures, these wrestlers proved that their talents extended beyond the ring. Mick Foley, CM Punk, Chris Jericho, and Kurt Angle each found ways to expand their careers and make lasting impacts in other industries. Their journeys remind us that professional wrestling can be a springboard for greater opportunities, and success can be found in many different avenues of entertainment.