WWE Star Dave Bautista Signs on for Marvel's GAURDIANS OF THE GALAXY

Renowned WWE wrestler Dave Bautista has been enlisted by Marvel.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the MMA fighter has landed the role of 'Drax the Destroyer,' in the studio's upcoming GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY flick being helmed by James Gunn. Bautista joins PARKS AND RECREATION's Chris Pratt for the film.

Bautista beat out Isaiah Mustafa, Patrick Wade, and Jason Momoa for the role, a "human resurrected as a green warrior with the sole purpose of killing Thanos (the villain in the final-scene tease of Avengers). His powers include flight, super-strength and energy blasts."

As of now, no additional casting for the remaining super hero crew, including 'Groot,' 'Rocket Raccoon,' and 'Gamora,' has been announced.

For the original report, head on over to The Hollywood Reporter.

Though Guardians of the Galaxy was originally a 1969 Marvel comic, it was not until the 1990s that it got its own series. Then in 2008, the stories were re-imagined, upon which this film, slated to come out in August 2014, will be largely based. The story is about Peter Quill (Pratt) and his posse of alien superheroes from the future who join forces to protect the solar system from the evil aliens. As is often true of Marvel Comics, the Guardians worked with other Marvel characters, including The Avengers, so there is also speculation as to whether the characters from that recent film will appear in this one as well.

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY is set for an August 1, 2014 release.

Bautista has previously appeared in the film THE MAN WITH THE IRON FISTS, and can next be seen opposite Vin Diesel in RIDDICK.

Image via Dave Bautista's Official Facebook Page