You’d be forgiven for thinking Batista had lost all measure of self-control in the run-up to his No Holds Barred Match with Triple H at WrestleMania, but The Animal’s satellite interview with Michael Cole told a very different story. The Batista who answered Cole’s questions did so carefully and thoughtfully; if nothing else, he has given his long history with The King of Kings a lot of consideration, and the roots of his grudge go as far back as his in-ring career.

Speaking in a level, calm voice, Batista disputed the notion that he owed his career to Triple H, who he believes never saw him as anything more than his personal muscle. He also pinned his infamous 2010 exit — he doesn’t like to say he “quit” — on the fact that The Game chose to hold him down as his boss rather than support his ambitions as a friend. As far as Batista's concerned, the fact that he managed to get this WrestleMania match is proof positive that Triple H never quite gave him the respect he deserved — after all, he left the company and attained enough of a reputation to bend the master manipulator to his will.

On that front, the only time Batista’s aggression got the better of him was when Cole attempted to defend The Game’s integrity. Removing his shades, The Animal insisted that Triple H has the entire WWE office fooled and is as dangerous and controlling as he’s ever been. He ended the interview with a twofold prediction: That Mr. McMahon would fire Triple H and end The Game’s professional career, and Batista would take care of the in-ring portion at WrestleMania. Bold words, to be sure, but if nothing else, the interview made clear that Big Dave has given a lot of thought to who he’s facing. Triple H might not be able to say the same.