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While the wrestling world is filled with dynamic alliances and fierce feuds, some connections go unnoticed by the spotlight. One such unique and relatively unknown friendship is the bond that has developed between WWE star Titus O'Neil and the powerhouse known as Batista. Beyond the bright lights and scripted storylines, these two athletes have formed a genuine camaraderie that showcases the deeper, authentic human connections that often remain hidden from the public eye. Together, Titus O'Neil and Batista's friendship serves as a testament to the unexpected relationships that can blossom in the world of professional wrestling, demonstrating that even in the most intense of arenas, true friendships can thrive.
How Batista And Titus O'Neil Became Friends
They Met Before WWE
Their friendship began long before Titus became a name in WWE. As fate would have it, Bautista and O'Neil were not only destined to cross paths but also to become neighbors. It was during this time that Bautista recognized O'Neil's potential and helped him make his way into the world of professional wrestling. In 2018, Titus O'Neil discussed his football background and his journey into the world of sports entertainment in an interview with Richmond.com. He shared how he successfully transitioned into the wrestling industry while promoting 'Titus Worldwide.' He said, "One of my closest friends is Dave Bautista, and we’ve had several conversations about wrestling, but it wasn’t something I was looking to make into a career." Titus added, "But he did tell me where they trained at, which was in Tampa. I was driving one day to get a pair of dress shoes and saw the (training center) in the plaza across the street. So I poked my head in the back door to see what it’s all about. Two weeks later I was signed and learning how to become a WWE superstar."
He also opened up about their friendship and bond before WWE. "Dave Bautista. We were neighbors for years. He’s one of my closest friends. Long before I got into WWE we became friends. That’s the beauty of life, you never know why you get to meet certain people." In the interview, he also chose Dave as his partner in his dream match where he and Dave would take on John Cena and The Rock.
RELATED: 10 Things Most Fans Forget About Batista's Career
Batista Was Upset By Titus O'Neil's Suspension From WWE
Controversy With Vince McMahon
Titus O'Neil and his subsequent suspension from WWE in 2016 was a significant turning point in his career and a moment that highlighted the depth of his friendship with Dave Bautista. During a segment after Daniel Bryan's retirement speech, O'Neil playfully grabbed Vince McMahon's arm so that his daughter Stephanie could walk out first, intending to make a light-hearted gesture. However, this seemingly innocuous action resulted in unexpected consequences. Vince McMahon took the incident seriously and decided to suspend O'Neil for 60 days. The suspension was met with surprise and disappointment from both fans and fellow wrestlers. Many believed that the punishment was excessive considering the nature of the incident. Dave Bautista, who had maintained a close friendship with O'Neil, was particularly vocal about his discontent with the decision.
Speaking on Talk is Jericho (h/t WrestlingInc) in 2017 Batista opened up on what he did to Titus after he got suspended. "I told him he should have left the WWE after he got suspended. I said, 'dude, I would have been out of there.' No, I hated it because I thought that was a conversation Vince should have pulled him aside and said, 'don't ever f--king do that again' and it never would have happened again." Batista explained, "It should have been a man-to-man thing if he had such an issue with it, which I could see a point where he may. It's just bad timing. But Vince is a playful guy." He added, "I hated to see it and I felt like it was such a slap in the face and I really felt like it was spit right in his face. Also suspended him right through WrestleMania. You don't do that."
Batista voiced his frustration, saying that Titus wasn't making as much money as his potential with WWE, but it was his dream, so he remained with the company.
RELATED: Batista Is Trying To Make His Delayed WWE Hall Of Fame Induction Happen
Batista & Titus O'Neil's Friendship Is Displayed On Their Social Media
Celebrated Batista's Wrestling Anniversary
Titus O'Neil took to Twitter when Batista's 20-year WWE anniversary came up to share a personal message of gratitude, congratulating the former tag team champion on his accomplishments. He wrote, "My Friendship with @DaveBautista has been Very special to me and my Family for years. I’ve watched him excel in @WWE and in Hollywood & through both I’ve always seen Dave for what he truly is… A Brother to me, An Uncle to my kids and A GREAT HUMAN BEING!! Congrats on 20 years!!"
On a different occasion, he also thanked Batista for picking up the tab while having lunch with him and his kids. Titus even affectionately called his kids Batista's nephews. While the two have never had a major program together in WWE, it is one they both wanted for a long time.
