Former Rutgers defensive tackle and inspiration, Eric LeGrand, offers his definitive take on professional wrestling, naming his WWE Mount Rushmore, the one superstar he’d want as his bodyguard, and the current athlete with the perfect combination of size and agility to excel in the NFL.
Eric LeGrand’s Pantheon: The WWE Mount Rushmore
Eric LeGrand’s definitive WWE Mount Rushmore is a tribute to global impact, electrifying presence, and enduring legacy, featuring four titans who defined the modern era of professional wrestling. His top selection is The Rock, the undisputed People’s Champion. LeGrand asserts that The Rock must be on the mountain simply because no other superstar has successfully transitioned the charisma and fame achieved in the wrestling world to such massive success in Hollywood and beyond, cementing his status as a cultural icon and a global celebrity.
The second and third pillars of LeGrand’s mountain are dedicated to the two superstars whose entrances alone could shake an arena: “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and The Undertaker. For Austin, the choice is visceral. LeGrand emphasizes that there’s simply “no other pop in the arena when you hear that glass break,” noting that the sound alone instantly incites pandemonium from every fan, regardless of their location. The Undertaker earns his spot based on sheer longevity and an “illustrious career.” LeGrand acknowledges that The Deadman has “been through it all,” representing a character and legacy that endured multiple generations of wrestling.
Finally, the fourth spot goes to the ultimate showman, “Nature Boy” Ric Flair. While LeGrand admits his choices reflect the era he started watching in 1995, potentially excluding some “older guys,” Flair’s inclusion is a nod to his timeless dedication and persona. Even in his later years, Flair’s willingness to still be “out there 60-70 years old strutting and jiving in the arena and in the ring” is a testament to the mark he left on the entire wrestling business. These four—The Rock, Steve Austin, The Undertaker, and Ric Flair—are, in LeGrand’s view, the stars who have undeniably left their indelible mark on the industry.
Back-Up in a Dark Alley: The Undead Asset
When asked which wrestler on his list he would want watching his back in a dangerous situation, LeGrand didn’t hesitate. He chose The Undertaker, citing the sheer intimidation factor and supernatural size.
“The Undertaker because he’s gonna scare everybody. When he rises back up after you knock him out and he rises from the dead, all HELL is gonna break loose… it’s gotta be the Undertaker especially when he’s dressed in all black with the cape and the hat; and also don’t forget that he’s 6 ’11 “… that’s the guy that has my back!”
From Ring to Gridiron: The Tight End Prospect
LeGrand analyzed the current WWE roster for a superstar with the size and athleticism to transition to the NFL. While many wrestlers have a football background, LeGrand sought out a high-caliber athlete who could excel in the modern game.
His pick is Seth Rollins, whom he envisions as a versatile Tight End: “Seth Rollins can flip, he’s got a big body and you can line him up at that tight end position.” LeGrand broke down the matchup advantages Rollins would possess: linebackers “won’t be able to cover him because he can make some moves on them,” and his strength is sufficient to “take those hits from the safeties coming up.” LeGrand concluded, “Seth Rollins is an athlete.”
The WWE’s Stephen Curry: The Ultimate Underdog
LeGrand identified Stephen Curry as his favorite current NBA player, which led to a discussion on the wrestler who mirrors Curry’s impact as an undersized but dominant force.He settled on Rey Mysterio, who, like the 6’3” Curry in a league of giants, has consistently competed against behemoths: “I’m gonna go with Rey Mysterio because he’s a smaller guy in a realm of bigger guys and he’s still holding his own.” Mysterio’s ability to remain at the top despite being consistently smaller than his competition makes him the perfect wrestling parallel to the NBA’s sharpshooting icon.
