10 Wrestlers Who Are Almost Unrecognisable Since They Retired

2. Tank Abbott

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Anyone who was watching WCW at the turn of the century will likely remember the introduction of Tank Abbott. A former UFC fighter from the pre-Zuffa era of Ken Shamrock and Dan Severn, Abbott was an intimidating badass from the "no holds barred" days, and carried his reputation through to WCW.

The UFC 6 runner-up was originally brought in as opposition for Goldberg. Despite his lack of pro wrestling experience, the pairing made sense considering Goldberg's positioning as a legit fighter with martial arts traits in his wrestling game. However, the feud never materialised.

In hindsight, had Abbott been booked against the right opposition and placed on a collision course with Goldberg, it could have made for great TV. Instead, Vince Russo pushed hard for Abbott to be crowned WCW Champion when Bret Hart was forced to vacate the title in January 2000. Luckily, that also never happened, and both Russo and Abbott were gone a short time later.

Since retiring from wrestling - and hanging up the MMA gloves for good also - Tank has changed up his look dramatically. Rather than looking like a cross between Steve Austin and Jim Neidhart, the shoot fighter now has a full beard and, oddly enough, a full head of hair.

 
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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!