“I didn’t see that one coming either,” Bautista wrote in an Instagram post sharing the news.
Actor and former wrestler Dave Bautista has been named an honorary deputy sheriff by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. The 56-year-old star of In the Lost Lands received the title on April 19, 2025, expressing his surprise on Instagram.
“I didn’t see that one coming either. 🤷♂️😂,” Bautista wrote, sharing a photo of his sheriff’s badge.
The actor thanked WWE’s Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil and Sheriff Chad Chronister, adding, “Big love and thanks to my brother @titusoneilwwe and Sheriff @chadchronister for the honor and for everything you do for this community. Appreciate you both.”
Bautista, who has lived in Tampa for over 20 years, also expressed his affection for the city: “Tampa’s held a special place in my heart ever since I moved here 20 years ago. Always has. Always will.”
Bautista retired from wrestling in 2019, marking the end of a storied career.