A legend has walked away. Mick Foley, the iconic WWE performer known as Mankind, Cactus Jack, and Dude Love, has severed ties with the wrestling organization. His departure isn't about age, injury, or creative differences – it’s a powerful stand against what he perceives as a troubling alignment.
The breaking point arrived with the shockingly insensitive comments made by Donald Trump following the tragic deaths of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife. Trump’s words, dismissing Reiner’s passing with a harsh and dismissive label, proved to be the final catalyst for Foley’s decision.
Foley didn’t hesitate to make his feelings known. In a direct and emotionally charged statement, he articulated his deep concern over WWE’s ongoing relationship with the former President, a concern that had been simmering for months. He specifically cited the administration’s policies and treatment of immigrants as a source of growing unease.
This wasn’t a rash decision. Foley explained he had already informed WWE talent relations of his intention to cease all appearances for the company while Trump remains in power. He also confirmed he would not be renewing his contract when it expires, effectively ending a long and celebrated association.
The weight of this choice is evident in Foley’s words. He expressed genuine affection for WWE, acknowledging the opportunities and experiences it provided him throughout his career. He holds a deep respect for the organization and its history, making his departure all the more significant.
Yet, Foley felt compelled to act. He invoked the spirit of Popeye the Sailor, declaring he could “stand no more.” This wasn’t simply about politics; it was about principle, about refusing to align himself with a figure he believes embodies a lack of compassion and a dangerous path towards authoritarianism.
Foley’s last official appearance for WWE was in 2023, announcing competitors for the Iron Survivor Challenge. But his legacy extends far beyond any single event. He helped define an era of wrestling, captivating audiences with his brutal honesty and willingness to push boundaries.
The situation is further complicated by recent interactions between WWE’s chief content officer, Paul Levesque (Triple H), and Trump. Levesque joined the former President at the White House for a sports initiative, a move that drew scrutiny from fans and observers.
While Trump hasn’t appeared at a WWE event since his infamous “Battle of the Billionaires” at WrestleMania in 2007, his continued connection to the organization, and the recent White House visit, clearly weighed heavily on Foley’s decision. His departure serves as a stark reminder that even in the world of sports entertainment, principles matter.
