Why WWE Legend Ruled Out In-Ring Return Against AEW’s MJF

This WWE legend decided it’s best to stay retired, even at the mouth-watering prospect of a match with AEW star MJF.

Wrestling fans need no introduction to hardcore legend Mick Foley. Foley was integral in taking wrestling to new heights, as each time he would perform, he would most likely provide a shocking and memorable moment for fans to remember for decades to come. Chair shots, barbed wire and blood were commonplace when Mick Foley was in action.

The former WWE Champion would take bumps that felt impossible, absorb pain and punishment well beyond what most mortals can imagine withstanding, and entertain with a rich array of colourful characters that he would play over the course of his career (Mankind, Cactus Jack, Dude Love, etc).

His great work, however, did come at a price as Foley had to undergo hip and knee replacement surgeries, until which point he reportedly struggled to walk for 10 years. Although he had made up his mind about never going back for any match or any amount of money, one offer did tempt him to rethink his decision.

WWE’s Mick Foley Talks About Possible In-Ring Return For Final Match Against AEW’s MJF

At FanX 2025, the WWE Hall of Famer shared his thoughts on coming back to wrestle one final match. Foley declared that he had considered doing it for his 60th birthday, but confessed that he wouldn’t be able to do the things he had in mind during the match without causing damage to his replaced hip and knee.

I was thinking of doing a last match for my 60th birthday, which has come and gone, and so I didn’t do it. Sometimes discretion is the better part of valor, and I really thought if I do some of the things I want to do in this match, I will completely mess up my hip and knee replacement.

I remember how painful it was to walk for like 10 years before I got that. I don’t want to go back there — not for any match or any amount of money.

One offer from AEW star MJF for a weeks long program almost made Foley reconsider. He explains

The guy who put forth the best proposal was MJF. And we would have had a heck of a six-week program.

WWE fans, though, have tons of unforgettable moments from the legend and his legacy is cemented and nearly impossible to replicate.

h/t: ringsidenews.com

Also rad: AEW’s MJF References WWE Legends While Looking To Join Elite Club