10 Famous People You Won't Believe Were Wrestlers

6. Forging A Path

Released in 1960, Spartacus was a tremendously successful film, one which helped launch the career of legendary director Stanley Kubrick. The man behind the camera wasn't the only one who benefited from the release however, African-American Woody Strode also capitalised on his role as the monstrous Draba, who has a memorable fight in the Gladiator ring with co-star Kirk Douglas (in the title role as Spartacus). Strode went on to be quite the pioneer, and is routinely name-checked by black actors as paving the way for other African-Americans in Hollywood. Of course, as you'll know from reading this list, the man also had a pretty close association with the world of pro wrestling, even going face-to-face with Gorgeous George, and teaming with the likes of Bobo Brazil. Never really working full-time in the business for any great length of time, Strode instead dipped his toe in and out of wrestling, competing from the 1940's right up till the 60's. Also making a name for himself in American Football, Woody was a stand out athlete, one who is regarded as surprisingly nimble for such a tall guy (Strode was 6'4").