The Batman Sequel: 10 Possible Villains (And Who Should Play Them)

10. Bane – Dave Bautista

Dave Bautista’s transition from the canvas to the red carpet has been seamless considering his roots. Wrestling is high-octane, where performance is derived from emotion and expression, and there is more to the sport than simply one performer body-slamming another. Dave brings an emotional vulnerability and depth to his on-screen roles that align with storylines he formerly brought to WWE. The 53-year-old owns not only an incredible physique but also an impressive resume of performances and projects to match it, solidifying his status in Hollywood as a capable and committed actor.

Bautista boasts brains and brawn, so it should come as no real surprise that a character with a physical and psychological profile such as Bane’s appeals to someone with his know-how. The bulked-up bruiser is not your typical henchman, as Bane offers a multi-faceted skillset that many of Batman’s famous foes lack.

The multiple-time World Champion has every asset at his disposal to harness Bane, and has previously expressed his own personal interest in playing the part, stating that “I’d just love a crack at it. I think I could bring an interesting twist to it, and I think I could do the character justice. Not only in performance, but also in physicality.”

Bautista’s predecessor Tom Hardy reinvigorated the role and brought a real believability to Bane's origins, and despite the British actor’s popular portrayal of the character, BigDave will be keen to stamp his authority on the role should Matt Reeves’ look to incorporate the venom-infused villain into his world.