10 Unsuccessful athletes that took their talent to the WWE

Brian Pillman

#8 Brian Pillman

Pillman’s “Loose Cannon” gimmick made him one of the most exciting, and unpredictable Superstars in wrestling history. In fact, Dean Ambrose’s “Lunatic Fringe” character is loosely based on Pillman’s gimmick!

Pillman was made for professional wrestling. However, similar to Neidhart, Pillman initially harboured hopes of becoming a professional footballer. Pillman played as the defensive tackle for Miami University, and caught the attention of the scouts when he set a record for tackles for a loss! In fact, Pillman was a two time Second Team All - American, but wasn’t drafted in the National Football League.

Brian did sign for the Cincinnati Bengals later in 1984, and then played for the Buffalo Bills in ’85, but was cut before the season started. While Brian did sign up with the Calgary Stampeders the next year, he decided to focus on his wrestling career, and signed with Stu Hart’s Canadian Stampede.

Brian achieved notoriety while working for WCW and ECW, before he eventually joined WWE as the unhinged mad man.