In a dramatic move that underscores the deep political divisions in professional wrestling, legendary performer Mick Foley has officially ended his long-standing relationship with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The Hall of Famer cited the organization's ongoing connections to former President Donald Trump as his primary reason, specifically pointing to Trump's reaction to a recent tragedy as the breaking point.
The Final Straw: A Reaction to Tragedy
Foley, 60, announced his decision on social media on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. He identified Trump's response to the December 14 killing of actor-director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, as the catalyst. Foley characterized the president's remarks as "incredibly cruel" and stated it was the "final straw for me."
"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 in an Instagram post. He followed this with concrete action, informing WWE talent relations that he would make no further appearances for the company as long as Trump remains in office. Furthermore, Foley declared he will not sign a new Legends contract when his current deal expires in June.
A Wrestling Legacy at a Crossroads
Foley, famous for his hardcore wrestling personas like Cactus Jack, Mankind, and Dude Love, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013. Ironically, Trump was inducted the same year for his numerous guest appearances at WWE events. This shared honor highlights the complicated history between the entertainment giant and the political figure.
The announcement drew immediate support from some corners of the wrestling world. Former WWE manager Jim Cornette praised Foley on X, writing that the wrestler had "just become my favorite person in the world" and commending his backbone and morals.
A Deep-Rooted Political Divide in WWE
Foley's decision brings into sharp focus the political schism within professional wrestling. This stands in stark contrast to the late Hulk Hogan, a vocal Trump supporter who endorsed him as a "real American hero" at the 2024 Republican National Convention. The ties run deeper into the administration, with former WWE CEO Linda McMahon currently serving as U.S. Education Secretary.
Foley, however, has been a consistent critic. Before the 2024 election, he endorsed Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in a social media video, calling Trump "an obvious con man" and concluding with a direct message: "I made the decision not to call you a douche bag, even though you are one."
The wrestler joins a chorus of public figures expressing outrage over Trump's comments about the Reiners. On his Truth Social platform, the president suggested the couple suffered from "TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME." As of now, WWE has not publicly responded to Foley's resignation announcement.
Despite his strong stance, Foley expressed affection for his former employer, stating, "I love WWE, will always treasure my time with them... But, in the words of Popeye the sailor, 'I stands all I can stands, and I can’t stands no more.'" His departure marks a significant moment where personal conviction has collided with professional allegiance in the world of sports entertainment.
