WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley has surprised fans and wrestling insiders alike with a highly positive health update. At 60 years old, Foley revealed in a recent interview that thanks to hip and knee replacement surgeries combined with significant weight loss, he is moving around better now than he did 15 years ago. This upbeat report comes despite the legendary hardcore wrestler’s notoriously grueling in-ring history and recent health scares.
Speaking candidly on the Kayfabe Friends Wrestling Podcast during the 2025 Cauliflower Alley Club Reunion — where he received the “Iron” Mike Mazurki Award — Foley gave an encouraging glimpse into his physical condition. “Not too bad all things considered,” he said. “I don’t have to wonder when I wake up what I did for a living. You know, I’m sore. But I’m not as sore as I thought I’d be. And I’m actually, thanks to the hip and knee replacement, then, you know, I did lose 99 pounds. I’ve gained some of it back on, but I’m still walking better than I was 15 years ago… I actually once in a while pass people in the airport when I’m walking. So I’m doing better than I thought I’d be doing.” (Kayfabe Friends Wrestling Podcast/h/t WrestlingNews.co)
This statement reflects an inspiring turnaround considering Foley’s brutal wrestling style throughout his career. Known for his extreme hardcore matches — including legendary bouts in Hell in a Cell and various deathmatches — Foley endured multiple concussions, broken bones, and countless physical punishments that would have sidelined most athletes permanently.
Despite planning a comeback for one final deathmatch to celebrate his 60th birthday, Foley was forced to cancel those plans after suffering a concussion during light training. Adding to his health challenges, he endured another concussion in a car accident this past April. Thankfully, he was mostly unscathed from that incident. Sources close to Foley reveal that prioritizing his health and well-being was a difficult but essential decision.
Foley’s openness about his health journey has resonated in the wrestling community. As reported by WrestleTalk, Foley’s ongoing relationship with WWE remains strong; he recently signed a WWE Legends deal in September 2024, officially marking his retirement from active wrestling while maintaining a presence in the industry. (WrestleTalk.com)
His career achievements are legendary—three-time WWF Champion, eight-time Tag Team Champion, inaugural Hardcore Champion, and WWE Hall of Fame inductee in 2013 — and now his health progress adds a hopeful chapter to the story of one of pro wrestling’s toughest icons.
Fightful further elaborated on Foley’s efforts in maintaining his health post-retirement. The former hardcore legend detailed how the multiple surgeries on his hips and knees have helped reduce the expected soreness significantly. Foley explained that while he still feels the impact of his physically demanding career daily, the weight loss of nearly 99 pounds was instrumental in improving his mobility and quality of life. (Fightful.com)
When discussing his current limitations, Foley mentioned avoiding jolts or sudden impacts, no longer riding rollercoasters, and his aversion to bright lights—a testament to the lasting effects of numerous concussions over his career. Still, he maintains a positive outlook, stating that all things considered, he is “doing pretty well.” (Fightful.com)
Fans interested in Foley’s enduring spirit will also find inspiration in his reflections on the characters he portrayed and would embody if starting wrestling today. In a separate interview with The David Difference Podcast, Foley said he would start as “Cactus Jack,” his most authentic persona, highlighting how closely that character mirrors his real-life temperament. (Sescoops.com)
The wrestling world continues to show immense respect for Foley. His recent recognition at the Cauliflower Alley Club Reunion alongside the “Iron” Mike Mazurki Award highlights his enduring influence and fortitude. Industry insiders note that Foley’s candid accounts of his health provide valuable insights into the rigors of professional wrestling and the importance of health preservation after retirement.
In summary, Mick Foley’s revelation that he is now walking better than he did 15 years ago at age 60, alongside his commitment to maintaining wellness post-retirement, offers a remarkably hopeful story for longtime wrestling fans and athletes alike. His journey from hardcore legend to someone successfully managing serious physical challenges illustrates resilience and the positive impact of modern medical interventions combined with personal discipline.
Sources:
- Kayfabe Friends Wrestling Podcast (2025 Cauliflower Alley Club Reunion) / WrestlingNews.co
- WrestleTalk.com (WWE Legends and Health Update)
- Fightful.com (Detailed Health Perspective and Weight Loss)
- Sescoops.com (Character Discussion and Interview Highlights)
- F4WOnline.com (Cauliflower Alley Club Award and Health Remarks)
This health update reminds wrestling fans everywhere that while the days of brutal battles may be behind him, Mick Foley continues to defy expectations both inside and outside the squared circle.