First, let's begin with a little background. Mick Foley signed on with the WWE, then known as the WWF, in 1996. He quickly became one of their most popular superstars, playing the deranged Mankind. During a time in which pro wrestling was hitting the mainstream once again, Foley was involved in some of the most memorable matches and moments in the history of the sport. However, Foley took an incredible amount of punishment in those matches, causing serious injury and damage. As a result, Foley had to retire from full-time, in-ring action in 2000. Over the past few years, we have seen Foley appear in a few matches, a stint as commissioner and have several promotional appearances. Recently, Foley was named the color commentator for WWE's Friday Night Smackdown. WWE head honcho Vince McMahon was apparently very critical of Foley, which according to Foley is the main reason for his departure from WWE.
Potential Impact on TNA
So, the question becomes, where does Foley fit in TNA? Perhaps more importantly, what kind of an impact can he have on the company? Considering that he has not been a full-time wrestler since 2000, it is probably a safe bet that that has already been ruled out. A commissioner-esque role is also probably a longshot, considering that fellow legend Jim Cornette already occupies a similar spot in the company.
TNA's commentary has long been criticized for being over the top and too talkative, but if the pairing of Mike Tenay and Don West has not yet been replaced in the company's six-year existence, chances are they won't be split up now. TNA has shown interest in using a three-man team in the past, employing several different personalities over the years, so Foley may find his place there, as has been suggested by Newsday's Alfonso Castillo.
However, the wrestling media may be looking over where Foley could be used in the most advantageous way possible: Managing. This would allow Foley to remain in the spotlight, managing a new talent and helping push along his career. He would still get to be physical in certain spots, and he would be able to use his fantastic skills on the microphone. This would not be dissimilar to what legend Harley Race did a decade and a half ago, managing Big Van Vader in WCW, who just so happened to have a legendary feud with Cactus Jack, one of the many characters portrayed by Foley over his career.
But the question remains, can he truly help TNA? If he is used properly, there is no doubt that Mick Foley can be an impact in whatever promotion he is working for. It is simply a matter of TNA utilizing him in the proper way.
