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When it came to delivering in the big moments, Dennis Rodman was the man to trust. However, his eccentric lifestyle and choices outside the court often invited troubles for the five-time champ. One such instance came in 1998 when the Worm abruptly left after Game 3 of the NBA finals.

Terrell Owens holding Dude Wipes XL

The Chicago Bulls were on the cusp of winning their fifth championship. For the second straight year, they had the upper hand on the Utah Jazz. However, after the Game 3 triumph, Rodman went off to WCW Nitro to join Hulk Hogan. Despite Phil Jackson calling on, the Worm didn’t feel like returning to practice. While smashing his opponent with a chair, the Bulls gave their defensive specialist a hefty fine.

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Later, Rodman went on to battle his final opponent, Karl Malone in one of the highest-grossing WCW pay-per-views. However, years after his wrestling stint, the Worm wanted Brady’s right hand, Rob Gronkowski.

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Dennis Rodman reveals Gronk as his dream opponent

Joining Access Hollywood, Rodman answered some spicy personal questions about his flamboyant life. However, addressing his wrestling background, he openly challenged a fellow athlete who also burst as a hype star in wrestling. In fact, he called out one of NFL’s best tight ends, Rob Gronkowski.

READ MORE-?There?s No Money Left?: 5x NBA Champion Dennis Rodman While Deciding Between Lakers and Miami, Got a Brutal Reality Check Despite a Stellar Career

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Rodman announced the challenge, “Rob Gronkowski. How about that guy, I challenge you right now.”

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Much like the Worm, Gronk is known for his animated personality. A party animal, outside the NFL, Gronk was always in for fun. Likewise, even he made a surprise appearance in the WWE and tackled their superstars. He would eventually sign a short-term deal with the Wrestling organization and even hosted the iconic Wrestlemania event.

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The challenge was fair on all terms. Two of the most flamboyant athletes going head to head. Making a bump in the world of show business, who would be the almighty winner?

Gronk vs The Worm

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When it comes to experience, Rodman faced off in four matches as a wrestler. Partnering with nWo, he had one of the most popular wrestlers ever, Hulk Hogan guiding him. Surprisingly, he also won a championship at Hulkamania’s event. Hence, The Worm also has accolades that might help him edge out his competitor.

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But what Gronk can’t make in experience, he does in brutal power. During his dominant NFL reign, Gronkowski wasn’t just a traditional tight end. Escaping three-man coverages, the former New England Patriots star had other duties. His mammoth frame allowed him to act as a tackle while defending. Hence, his power might be his biggest strength of all.

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WATCH THIS STORY:?Inspiring books written by Dennis Rodman and Chris Paul.

What do you think of this All-star wrestling clash? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Anuj Talwalkar

4,483 Articles

Anuj Talwalkar is a senior NBA Newsbreak specialist at EssentiallySports, trusted for his real-time coverage and fast, accurate updates on league developments. With five NBA seasons and two Olympics coverages under his belt, Anuj stands out as the go-to reporter for the NBA Matchday Newsdesk. As part of the EssentiallySports Journalistic Excellence Program, he continuously refines his hard reporting with grounded storytelling shaped by fan culture and court-level insights. An economics graduate and lifelong OKC fan since the Supersonics era, Anuj combines analytical thinking and a genuine passion for basketball. He’s recognized for both his live news coverage and feature writing, with aspirations to someday interview Russell Westbrook. Anuj’s reporting is marked by its reliability, depth, and strong connection to the pulse of the NBA.

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