Not every NBA superstar finds himself in a wrestling ring in the middle of a career-defining moment. But Dennis Rodman decided to suit up for a wrestling match in the middle of the 1998 NBA finals. Rodman’s departure from the Bulls left the NBA world in shock, as one could not fathom a bigger moment in the life of an NBA player. But the then 4x Champion, on one particular night, found the wrestling ring more enticing than the Finals court.
Dennis Rodman indulged himself in one too many things outside the NBA court. Apart from being a Hall of Fame talent, the Worm also found himself at the pinnacle of the wrestling world. After joining a notorious faction in the up-and-coming WCW, ‘Rodzilla’ took his dedication to his new passion to the next level when he once left in the middle of the NBA finals. Moreover, he also collaborated with one of the Bulls’ biggest rivals.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Dennis Rodman and Karl Malone face-off in the ring
In 1998, Dennis Rodman had the highlight match of his wrestling career. On the 1998 Bash at the Beach, the Worm and Hulk Hogan tag-teamed against Diamond Dallas Page (DDP) and Karl Malone, the man Rodman had been guarding in the Finals. The iconic match stands among the most memorable moments in wrestling history. Moreover, the star power of Rodman and Malone brought WCW national recognition. After a grueling bout of wrestling, Rodman and Hogan came out on top.
Dennis Rodman’s passion for wrestling and showmanship was well-documented. Rodman, on numerous occasions, had pledged his fandom to the sport. However, the Worm’s passion turned to a profession when he made his debut alongside Hulk Hogan as part of the infamous faction ‘nWo’ at the 1997 Bash at the Beach. Rodman’s deal with WCW had him appearing in the ring every summer.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
But because Rodman was part of the Chicago Bulls, he would find himself ‘working’ through the summer while playing in the NBA finals. However, in the summer of 1998, Rodman, in the middle of the finals against the Utah Jazz, decided to hop on a plane to Detroit for WCW Monday Nitro. Though Rodman received major backlash for skipping practice, the Bulls eventually won the championship.
Watch the Story – 10 things Chicago Bulls legend Dennis Rodman cant live without
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Rodman had a very short stint in the wrestling world. ‘Rodzilla’ only played in four professional matches. However, Rodman’s colorful personality matched the wrestling showmanship like a glove. A perfect match, indeed.
What do you think of Rodman’s career in wrestling? Let us know in the comments below.