Dave Bautista—also known to wrestling enthusiasts as “The Animal” and to filmgoers as Drax from Guardians of the Galaxy—was gifted a warm recognition that left his face beaming from ear to ear. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department appointed Bautista as an Honorary Deputy Sheriff on April 19, 2025, as a gesture of appreciation for his strong connections to the community along with his larger-than-life figure.
It’s a warm moment not about a shiny badge but about a hero from a nearby community who has never forgotten where he came from. To Tampa residents and admirers around the globe, it’s a testament of how a single individual’s transition from the wrestling mat to Hollywood fame still comes back to where he started from.
The ceremony, conducted by Sheriff Chad Chronister, was a special occasion for Bautista, who has called Tampa his home for more than 20 years. The Honorary Deputy Sheriff title is ceremonial-only—no, Bautista won’t be making arrests or patrolling the streets—but a strong testament to his influence. He broke the news, in his own humility, on Instagram, sharing a selfie of his new ID card and badge, captioned with a tongue-in-cheek,
“I didn’t see that one coming either.”
In his message, he gave a special mention to Sheriff Chronister and WWE Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil, who attended the ceremony, for their work in the community and making this honor possible.
Bautista’s connection to Tampa runs deep. For two decades, he’s been a fixture in the city, raising his family and, in 2022, opening DC Society Ink, a tattoo studio near downtown that reflects his “Dream Chaser” nickname. The shop has become a local hotspot, blending Bautista’s love for ink with his commitment to the community. This honorary title feels like Tampa’s way of saying “thank you” for his loyalty. As a symbol of appreciation, it underscores how Bautista’s presence—whether through his business or his down-to-earth vibe—has made the city a little brighter.
Prior to being a deputy sheriff a day, Bautista was a worldwide superstar. In 2000, he started in the WWE, tearing through the wrestling landscape, winning multiple titles, and winning over observers with his brute power and charm. By 2010, he transitioned into movie work, appearing in box office top-grossor blockbusters such as Guardians of the Galaxy, Dune: Part Two, and Blade Runner 2049. Fans adore him not only for his on-screen toughness but also for his off-screen kindness—humble, warm, and quick to laugh. His response to the sheriff recognition illuminated why he’s a favorite from Tampa to Hollywood.
The announcement sparked a wave of excitement across social media and local media. Titus O’Neil, a Tampa resident and WWE’s goodwill powerhouse, was there to celebrate his friend, adding a touch of wrestling brotherhood to the event. Outlets like FOX 13 Tampa Bay and People covered the story, while fans on X cheered, with some joking that Bautista’s ready to “Batista Bomb” any troublemakers. The Florida Sheriffs Association shared his post, amplifying the love. Even Reddit buzzed with fans marveling at how Bautista’s wholesome moment felt like a win for Tampa.
