WWE 2K17: 10 Most Shocking Roster Omissions

3. Batista

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An inclusion in each of the last few WWE 2K games, Batista looked a surefire addition to 2K17’s roster. A six-time World Champion and two-time Royal Rumble winner, he put forth a HOF-worthy career with the company, and while his most recent return is best forgotten about, nobody can deny the success he found both as a member of Evolution and on his own.

Then there’s his newfound success in Hollywood. Okay, so he’s never going to be as prominent as The Rock, but Batista has forged a nice little acting career for himself. He was oddly entertaining in his role as Guardians of the Galaxy’s deadpan Drax the Destroyer, and with the sequel entering post-production, his success looks only to continue.

WWE love some Hollywood crossover action, which makes Batista’s omission even more confusing. While he’s never been shy on speaking his mind (and he’s definitely not afraid to criticise WWE in-public), it’s hard to imagine Batista has burned so many bridges that he can’t even appear in the video game.

Regardless, Batista is a hugely important figure in WWE’s recent history. He played a prominent role at the top of the card throughout his run, and his peak years weren’t so long ago that 2K17’s target audience will have forgotten about him. There’s no convincing argument against his inclusion.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.