In an interview with Orlando Weekly, Mick Foley talked about a number of topics ahead of the most recent stop on his 40 Years of Foley storytelling tour.
Talking on how much nostalgia plays a factor in connecting with fans of pro wrestling, the WWE Hall of Famer said:
I think nostalgia is a huge factor for fans. Somewhere around 2010, I went from being washed up to being part of people’s childhoods. I’m the same guy. I’ve only gotten older, but I’m no longer old and irrelevant. I’m part of people’s collective memories.
He also noted how many fans are younger, some born years after his Hell in a Cell match with The Undertaker at King of the Ring 1998, adding:
When I [officially] retired from wrestling [in 2000], the internet was kind of in its infancy. I just assumed that my fan base was going to continue to get older.
The conversation comes after Foley’s recent statements parting ways with WWE, stemming from the company’s continued ties and support with current United States President (and fellow WWE Hall of Famer) Donald Trump.
Despite his current stance, Foley stated his goal with the ongoing tour is not to divide audiences, but bring them together:
People know I’m outspoken, but the closest I get to making a political statement in the show is saying that kindness is cool.