Mick Foley’s Tough Legacy Explored in Dark Side of the Ring Premiere

NEW YORK, NY — The premiere of Season 6 of Vice TV‘s Dark Side of the Ring dives deep into one of professional wrestling’s most discussed events — Mick Foley‘s brutal match as Mankind at King of the Ring 1998. The episode examines how the match not only impacted Foley’s career but also took a toll on his family life.

Created by Evan Husney, the latest season looks beyond the wrestling narrative, focusing on the human elements surrounding Foley’s story. In an interview, Husney explained, “We wanted to explore the consequences and the deeply personal aspects of Mick’s career, not just as a wrestler but as a father.”

In a revealing moment, Foley’s daughter Noelle shared her struggle with recalling her father’s iconic “I Quit” match at the 1999 Royal Rumble. “I think my brain blocked it out because it was so traumatic,” she admitted, highlighting the emotional fallout from her father’s dedication to his craft.

The episode’s portrayal of Foley demonstrates the sacrifices he made for his family and his fans. Husney noted the production team’s intent to humanize Foley, moving past his WWE moniker as the “Hardcore Legend.” “We wanted to show him as a man who would do anything to entertain the audience and support his family,” he said.

This season of Dark Side of the Ring not only recounts memorable wrestling moments but also offers a poignant look at the repercussions of those moments on personal lives. Although the coverage includes graphic depictions of the physicality involved, such as the unprotected chair shots from the “I Quit” match, it emphasizes the psychological struggles that follow such an intense lifestyle.

Dark Side of the Ring returns each Tuesday at 10 p.m. on Vice TV, presenting a blend of wrestling history and the human experiences tied to it. With stories that resonate well beyond the ring, it has become a significant project for wrestling fans and newcomers alike.