Mankind

If there’s a villain in pro Wrestling, it’s the evil genius Vince McMahon – owner of the WWE and husband to failed Senate candidate. If there’s a sad man in pro-wrestling, it’s Jake “The Snake” Roberts, drug addict and fallen hero. But if there’s a hero of the sport, it’s the teddy bear who cloaked himself in a veil of insanity and blood, Mick Foley, aka Mankind, aka Dude Love, aka Cactus Jack, aka The Most Polite Man in Wrestling.

I used to be a major wrestling fan in college – I bet I’m one of the only local moms who can boast that she’s seen The People’s Elbow live in person – twice. It was a good time for the sport: with not only The Rock (creator of the people’s elbow), but Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Undertaker, Chyna, and the wholly unique character of Mankind.

He was a giant mad man that would shriek insanely, wore a mangled face mask, tore his own hair out, took more brutality than any other wrestler, was often soaked in blood and would take a dirty sock, named Mr. Socko from his pants and choke opponents with it. In short, it was a lunatic thing of genius.

Mick Foley, the man behind the mask couldn’t be more different than his creation. A family man with a heart of gold, Foley not only seems like a completely kind and likable soul, but is a huge advocate for victims of domestic violence and abuse, donating 50% of his advanced royalties of his latest book to Tori Amos’ RAINN.

See more: Style Icons: Male Wrestlers

Posted on November 15, 2010