10 Things You Didn't Know About The Wrestler

6. Hitting The Gym

The Wrestler Ram
Fox Searchlight Pictures

In order to attain the body of a professional wrestler, Rourke had a serious task ahead of him prior to shooting.

With a small window of opportunity before the project began, Rourke underwent an intense, four month training schedule to get in shape for the role. Coupled with a strict low carb/high protein diet, Rourke's regimen of weight training, strict cardio, and in-ring pro wrestling practice proved worthwhile.

As a result of the intense exercise and dieting, Rourke gained 27 lbs of muscle mass for the movie and, in a matter of months, became Randy 'The Ram' Robinson. The dramatic transformation of Rourke's physique inevitably led to speculation of steroid usage; however, this suggestion has never been definitively proven.

Rourke's previous life as a boxer made him no stranger to the gym and one look at his body during his controversial comeback fight in 2014 will tell you he is no slouch. At the age of 62, Rourke's physique for the fight was beyond impressive and while the bout itself was deemed a total farce by most, you can't argue with the aesthetic results.

Contributor
Contributor

Occasional wrestler, full-time gym rat and lifelong lover of the grapple game. Would probably buy you a shot of Jack at the bar in exchange for witty banter...and preferably more Jack. @MartynGrant88 for more wrestling-related musings and weight room wisecracks!