The Great Khali, a towering figure in the world of professional wrestling, embodies the power of dedication and self-discipline. His remarkable success story is a testament to his unwavering commitment to turning aspirations into achievements. Born into an ordinary family, Khali has become a symbol of Indian pride, representing his nation on the grandest stage of the sport and inspiring a new generation of Indian wrestling enthusiasts. His journey to becoming a multimillionaire, however, was paved with challenges and triumphs.
Before his WWE career, Khali navigated a challenging path, battling tough opponents and honing his skills. While his in-ring exploits are widely celebrated, the story of his accomplishments prior to WWE often remains untold. This narrative delves into those formative experiences, showcasing the depth of the WWE Hall of Famer’s journey.
Khali, whose real name is Dalip Singh Rana, stood at over seven feet tall, a physical attribute that opened doors. Before joining WWE, he worked various jobs, including as a member of the Punjab State Police, a bodyguard for a businessman in Shimla, and a competitor in bodybuilding contests. These diverse experiences equipped him with the skills and resilience needed for a career in professional wrestling.
Khali’s WWE career, which began in 2006, was marked by immediate success. Within a year, he claimed the World Heavyweight Championship, becoming the first Indian-origin World Champion in WWE history. Before WWE, he gained valuable experience in regional promotions like All Pro Wrestling (APW), World Championship Wrestling (WCW), and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).
In WWE, Khali engaged in memorable feuds and shared the ring with wrestling legends like The Undertaker, John Cena, Batista, Triple H, and Big Show. He participated in high-profile events such as WrestleMania and SummerSlam. His tenure with WWE lasted until 2014. Beyond the ring, Khali expanded his horizons, appearing in films like ‘The Longest Yard’ and ‘Get Smart’, and even participating in the reality show ‘Bigg Boss’.
