WWE Legend Mick Foley Parts Ways with WWE Over Trump Connections
In a significant move that has rippled through the professional wrestling community, WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley announced his decision to cut ties with World Wrestling Entertainment due to the company’s close relationship with the Trump administration. The 60-year-old wrestling icon, known for his death-defying stunts and multiple championship reigns, shared his decision via Instagram, citing his inability to represent a company that maintains connections with President Donald Trump. Foley’s announcement comes shortly after Trump’s return to office, which saw Linda McMahon appointed as Secretary of Education and WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque attending White House ceremonies where Trump signed executive orders reestablishing the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition.
Foley’s departure wasn’t a sudden decision but rather the culmination of months of discomfort with WWE’s Trump affiliations. In his heartfelt Instagram post, the hardcore legend explained that while he had been concerned about the relationship for some time, it was Trump’s comments following filmmaker Rob Reiner’s death that served as “the final straw.” The wrestling veteran specifically mentioned his opposition to what he described as the administration’s “cruel and inhumane treatment of immigrants,” reflecting his long-standing criticism of Trump’s policies. Foley’s principles ultimately outweighed his professional ties, leading him to inform WWE’s talent relations department that he would no longer make appearances for the company as long as Trump remains in office.
The decision represents a significant personal sacrifice for Foley, who has been synonymous with WWE for decades. Beyond simply refusing appearances, Foley took the additional step of announcing he would not renew his “Legends” contract when it expires in June. This contract typically provides WWE icons with ongoing income and opportunities within the company ecosystem. Despite this separation, Foley expressed continued affection for WWE, stating, “I love WWE, will always treasure my time with them, and I am deeply appreciative for all the opportunities they afforded me.” His parting words borrowed from Popeye the sailor—”I stands all I can stands, and I can’t stands no more”—capturing the moral imperative behind his decision.
Foley’s legendary status in wrestling makes this departure particularly noteworthy. During his career, he created multiple memorable personas including Mankind, Cactus Jack, and Dude Love, and participated in some of wrestling’s most brutal matches. His infamous 1998 Hell in a Cell match with The Undertaker, where he was thrown off and through the 16-foot cage, remains one of wrestling’s most shocking moments. As a three-time WWE champion who helped define the company’s “Attitude Era” in the late 1990s, Foley’s decision represents more than just another celebrity political statement—it’s a significant break between a promotion and one of its most beloved figures.
The situation highlights the long-standing relationship between WWE and Trump, which predates his political career. Trump Plaza in Atlantic City sponsored early WrestleManias (IV and V), and Trump himself participated in storylines, most notably at WrestleMania 23’s “Battle of the Billionaires” where he shaved Vince McMahon’s head after their representatives competed in a “hair vs. hair” match. The McMahon family’s connections to Trump have continued into his presidency, with former WWE CEO Linda McMahon serving in his cabinet during his first term and now returning for his second. These ties have created an increasingly uncomfortable position for performers like Foley who strongly oppose Trump’s politics.
The wrestling world now watches to see if Foley’s departure might influence other WWE legends or current performers who share his political views. WWE has not publicly responded to Foley’s announcement, maintaining its typically apolitical corporate stance despite the McMahon family’s personal political connections. For fans of Foley, this represents a principled stand from a performer who has always been known for his authenticity both in and out of the ring. Whether his decision sparks broader changes or remains an isolated protest, it underscores how deeply political divisions have penetrated even entertainment spaces that traditionally avoided such controversies. As Foley steps away from the company that helped make him famous, he demonstrates that for some public figures, political and moral convictions ultimately outweigh professional relationships and financial considerations.
