Jim Ross’ 10 Greatest WWE Signings Ever

7. Batista

WWE

Six-time world champion Batista is now an in-demand star in Hollywood, and he can thank the opportunity Ross gave him for his rise to prominence.

Running on something of a parallel career to the likes of John Cena and Randy Orton, Batista joined WWE's developmental territory Ohio Valley Wrestling at the turn of the century. His time in OVW ended when he was given a chance on the main WWE roster whilst Ross was still in his talent scout role. According to the man himself, Ross had made visits to OVW to talk to the talents and give them tips on how to get better in the ring. His advice looked to have paid off when Batista was brought up after two years in developmental, debuting as 'Deacon Batista' in 2002.

Most know Batista's story from there - he aligned with Triple H, Ric Flair and Randy Orton in Evolution, only to turn on Triple H in 2005 to pursue (and win) the World Heavyweight Championship from his mentor. He became a six time champion, two time Royal Rumble winner and a four time Tag-Team champion, before jacking it in for the movies. He hung up his boots for good after defeat to Triple H at WrestleMania 35.

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Football writer (predominantly) with work previously published by Mail Online, Manchester Evening News, Daily Mirror, USA Today and Chelsea FC. Regular contributor for Huffington Post, who holds tempestuous relationships with WWE and FIFA 15.