There is no doubt that WWE Superstars spend endless hours in the gym and training facilities to hone their craft. After all, their career requires them to stay in prime shape as it helps in both their performances and to attract the crowd. While most superstars get into the rigors of training like a pro wrestler after inking a bond with promotions, some get a head start.

This happens when pro wrestlers, prior to attaining the status of WWE Superstars, go through army training. Yes, while the numbers are less, there are at least 12 such people, including Randy Orton and Lacey Evans, who have had a stint with the US Army before plying their trade with the WWE. Below is a list of five top talents who are Army vets-turned-WWE superstars.

Randy Orton: From serving the nation to 14 world title wins

The Viper needs no introduction to WWE fans. For the casual fans, the 43-year-old is one of the most decorated pro wrestlers in the WWE who is also a third-generation talent, following in the footsteps of his old man, ‘Cowboy’ Bob Orton, and his grandfather, Bob Orton Sr.

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Orton is the youngest talent to win the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, a record he still holds to this day. In a career spanning 21 years, Orton has gone on to win 14 world titles. His service in the US Army, however, lasted just a year, before he dropped out and shifted his attention to pro wrestling. Well, the US Army’s loss was a gain for the WWE Universe!

Lacey Evans: WWE’s missed opportunity?

The WWE could have done so much with a talent like Lacey Evans, but alas, that is all gone now. The former superstar, who severed her connection with the Stamford-based company in August of this year, had inked a bond in 2016. She made her main roster debut in 2019 and in the four years, found moderate success, albeit without any title run.

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Evans, who is a free agent at the moment, served in the U.S. Marine Corps SWAT team. Her service lasted for five years after enlisting at the age of 19. In WWE, Evans also divided opinion with her on-screen character, which was found to be similar to WWE legend Sgt. Slaughter by a section of people.

Road Dogg: Pro Wrestler who halted career to join the US Army

Yes, you read that right. Unlike others on the list, Road Dogg Jesse James went from being an in-ring performer to a military vet and back to being a pro wrestler.

An integral member of the legendary D-Generation X stable, Road Dogg made his in-ring debut in 1986. He then left for a tour after enlisting with the US Army. Once back, James followed his passion and had a legendary run with the WWE.

Kevin Nash: From NATO to nWo

Before enthralling the WWE Universe with his power-packed performances, Kevin Nash, the nWo legend served in the 202nd Military Police Company. His duties kept him with NATO for two years. 

Big Kev enlisted with the military after his basketball career ended due to an injury. Currently, the WWE Hall of Famer also discusses pro wrestling on his own podcast, which has gained a reputation among pro wrestling fans.

Montez Ford: Four years in the Marine Corps

Now you know the secret behind Montez Ford‘s athleticism! This Street Profits member has several college athletics records to his name and he joined the Marine Corps in 2008. Ford remained with the Army till 2012.

As per wwe.com: “His duties included arranging travel for Marines if they needed training.” Following his stint, he joined the promotion and trained to become a pro wrestler. Today, Ford and his wife, Bianca Belair, are one of the most sought-after couples in the industry.

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So, who among this list surprised you? Let us know in the comments.