WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley—known to millions of fans by his iconic personas Mankind, Cactus Jack, and Dude Love—has announced he is parting ways with WWE, citing the company’s relationship with President Donald Trump as the sole reason for his departure.
The three-time WWE Champion made the announcement on Instagram on Monday. The statement immediately went viral, causing "Mick Foley Twitter" to trend as fans scrambled across platforms to verify the news. In his post, Foley revealed he contacted WWE talent relations the previous night to inform them he would no longer be making appearances for the company. He stated that Trump’s comments following the murder of filmmaker Rob Reiner were “the final straw.”
I no longer wish to represent a company that coddles a man so seemingly void of compassion as he marches our country towards autocracy,” Foley wrote.
Reiner and his wife Michele were found stabbed to death at their Los Angeles home on December 14. Their son Nick Reiner has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Trump subsequently posted on Truth Social that Reiner died due to “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” drawing sharp criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.
Financial Implications and Contract Status
Foley also announced he will not renew his WWE Legends contract when it expires in June. The deal, which he re-signed in September 2024, covers merchandise rights, video games, and action figures.
The decision has triggered a surge of interest in Foley's net worth, as fans discuss the significant financial sacrifice involved in walking away from a Legends deal. By letting the contract expire, Foley is effectively forfeiting the royalties associated with his likeness in WWE video games and merchandise—a primary income stream for many retired legends.
I love WWE, will always treasure my time with them, and I am deeply appreciative for all the opportunities they afforded me,” Foley wrote. “But, in the words of Popeye the sailor, ‘I stands all I can stands, and I can’t stands no more.’
Speculation on Future in AEW
The announcement has also ignited rumors regarding Foley's potential future with AEW (All Elite Wrestling). Search traffic for "Mick Foley AEW" spiked immediately following his statement, with fans speculating whether the "Hardcore Legend" might bring his talents to the rival promotion.
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While Foley has not commented on any future bookings, his departure from the WWE ecosystem removes the contractual exclusivity that would have prevented such an appearance.
WWE has maintained close ties to the Trump administration. Former WWE CEO Linda McMahon currently serves as Secretary of Education, and Triple H has made multiple White House visits this year.