Add as a preferred source on Google Mick Foley has again discussed his decision to cut professional ties with WWE, just months before becoming part of AEW. The WWE Hall of Famer previously confirmed he would not renew his Legends Deal after disagreeing with the company’s relationship with Donald Trump.
Speaking with Going Ringside, Foley admitted the decision had an immediate financial impact, as he walked away from easy, high-paying appearances during WrestleMania weekend.
“It was a difficult decision to make to cut ties with them. I hadn’t been employed by them for many years, I was an independent contractor. But I did have a merchandising deal. I had a couple really easy high paying events at WrestleMania weekend. So as it turned out I had to work 24 hours on my own to make what I would gave made in four with WWE. But I’m okay with that, I believe if you want something you got after it and you work hard for it.”
AEW's Mick Foley says it was a "difficult decision" to cut ties with WWE:
— WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV) June 29, 2026
"It was a difficult decision to make to cut ties with them.
"I hadn’t been employed by them for many years, I was an independent contractor. But I did have a merchandising deal. I had a couple really easy… pic.twitter.com/A5jU8cmRXX
Foley’s WWE exit opened the door for his arrival in AEW. In May, the company confirmed he would appear on the Double or Nothing Buy In alongside Renee Paquette, marking his first official appearance for Tony Khan’s company.
During the event, Foley also got involved in a segment with MJF and Darby Allin, making it clear that his AEW presence would not be limited to the pre-show desk.
Tony Khan has already said Foley could contribute in different ways, including broadcasts, backstage work, pay-per-view appearances, and even creative assistance for the roster. However, any possible in-ring return would depend entirely on Foley’s physical condition and his own desire to do it.