Wrestling Legend Mick Foley Parts Ways with WWE Over Trump Relationship

Breaking News in Professional Wrestling

Legendary pro wrestler Mick Foley announced Tuesday he’s done with World Wrestling Entertainment for at least three years, citing the company’s close ties to Donald Trump. The decision marks a significant moment in professional wrestling, as Foley’s decision marks one of the most prominent breaks between a high‑profile wrestling legend and the company over political controversy in years.

The Catalyst for Departure

Foley posted on Instagram that his concerns about WWE’s close relationship with Trump had been stewing for months, but Trump’s comments about Reiner were the ‘final straw’. The wrestling star, who also alternated among the personas of Mankind, Dude Love and Cactus Jack, said, “I no longer wish to represent a company that coddles a man so seemingly void of compassion”.

Foley said he told WWE talent relations Monday night that he “would not be making any appearances for the company as long as this man remains in office.” He also said he would not re-sign his Legends deal when his contract expires in June.

Foley’s Wrestling Legacy

Foley, a WWE Hall of Famer, helped define WWE’s ‘Attitude Era’ and beat The Rock for the WWE title in 1999 before retiring in 2000. Foley was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013, part of the class that included Trump. He is an outspoken Democrat, once acting as a surrogate for John Kerry in a WWE-sponsored debate. He also contributed to Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign and endorsed Kamala Harris in the 2024 election.

WWE’s Trump Connection

Trump has a long history with WWE, dating back to his on-screen appearances in the mid-2000s and culminating in his 2013 induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. Additionally, Trump has also appointed former WWE CEO Linda McMahon to serve as secretary of Education, further cementing the relationship between the administration and the wrestling organisation.

Significance for the Wrestling World

Foley’s departure represents a rare public stance against WWE’s political affiliations by a major figure in the industry. The 60-year-old wrestler expressed his continued appreciation for WWE whilst making clear his moral position. This decision may set a precedent for how wrestling personalities navigate the intersection of sports entertainment and political involvement, particularly as the industry faces increasing scrutiny over its corporate relationships.