It was widely reported that Batista had a hard time bonding with his fellow workers during his time on SmackDown in 2005/06, as many believed that he had a tremendous ego and was not appreciative of his spot nor dedicated to the business the same as many others who were not afforded the same opportunities. In the same interview where he spoke critically of the aforementioned AJ Styles, The Animal had also had a few condemning remarks to level at his colleagues SmackDown. This was during the days when the brand split was still a thing, so there was obviously some competition fuelling the words when he said:
"I've watched their tapings live and it seems like a lot of the guys couldn't care less. There's a lack of passion and pride."
Once word began to spread that the members of the SmackDown roster were taking exception to his comments, he responded by doubling down on his earlier remarks and adding his Raw coworkers to the mix as well:
"There are guys on both shows who are lazy, couldn't care less and show no dedication."
When Dave was transferred to SmackDown in the 2005 draft he endured the wrath of hard-working veterans like JBL, Hardcore Holly and such who felt that Batista was personally disrespecting him. It took time (and a lot of support from Eddie Guerrero, who did get behind and befriend Batista) before the Animal was truly accepted in the blue brand's dressing room.
Brad Hamilton is a writer, musician and marketer/social media manager from Atlanta, Georgia. He's an undefeated freestyle rap battle champion, spends too little time being productive and defines himself as the literary version of Brock Lesnar.
