The WWE is losing one of its most popular members as Mick Foley has announced that he is parting ways with the company due to its ties to President Donald Trump. Over the years, Mick Foley has graced WWE stages and excited fans around the world, but Trump's comments about the recent death of director and writer Rob Reiner prompted him to cut ties with the promoter.
Mick Foley is one of the most famous wrestlers in the sport. In 1996, when it was known as the WWF, Foley became one of the key wrestlers who defined the Attitude Era. This era marked a turning point for WWE as it pushed its stars even more into the spotlight and created pop culture icons. Along with Mick Foley, some of the company's biggest icons would become wrestlers like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, The Rock, and Triple H. Despite being retired, Foley maintains a relationship with WWE, but has made it clear that he no longer feels part of the outfit because of Trump.
Earlier this week, American film icon Rob Reiner and his wife Michele were murdered in their home in Los Angeles. Fans and colleagues shared condolences and fond memories of the director on the Internet. However, President Trump took to his Truth Social page to say that Reiner's death was caused by an “incurable disability with a crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME.” These remarks immediately drew intense backlash from both sides of the aisle, and it was ultimately what inspired Foley to leave WWE for good. The beloved wrestling icon shared her decision via Instagram. The caption states that President Trump's comments on Reiner's death were “the last straw.” He continued: “I no longer wish to represent a society that coddles a man so seemingly without compassion as he marches our country toward autocracy.”
President Trump had ties to the WWE long before he entered politics, even being featured in the Battle of the Billionaires at WrestleMania 23. In the years since, he has maintained a relationship with Vince McMahon, going so far as to name his wife Linda McMahon as his current Secretary of Education. Even though he's no longer a mainstay on the roster, Mick Foley's departure from WWE is a big hit for the company. Nor are President Trump's comments the only reason for his departure. Foley went on to explain that “I have been concerned for several months about WWE's close relationship with Donald Trump – especially in light of his administration's continued cruel and inhumane treatment of immigrants.” The comments regarding Reiner's death were simply what sealed the deal for Foley.
During his time in WWE, Mick Foley was recognized by several personalities. In addition to his own name, he has taken on the beloved characters Cactus Jack, Mankind and Dude Love.
Despite his confirmation that he is leaving the company, it won't be official until June. The wrestling legend explained that his contract is still active until then, but he has no intention of signing a new one once it expires. It's been a shocking week for WWE fans as not only did Mick Foley announce his retirement, but John Cena's last match ended in a loss. Foley's announcement that he is leaving WWE will surely be a sad moment for many of his fans.
Source: Instagram
