Now he’s in Manila, heading up the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Raw Live Tour at the Araneta Coliseum on Feb. 24 and 25.
You wouldn’t think it to see this six-foot-plus bear in person, but he’s also the author of several children’s books, including "Christmas Chaos," "Halloween Hi-Jinx" and "Tales from Wrescal Lane," all proceeds of which went to building a school in the Philippines.
The WWE (formerly World Wrestling Federation, until it was publicly traded on Wall Street) is embarking on a whirlwind three-day promotional tour with Foley, including TV and radio appearances and meet-and-greet events at local malls.
Foley, who became a professional wrestler in 1983, is known for his hardcore matches that have frequently left him with injuries, including eight concussions, part of his ear being ripped off, second-degree burns from a C-4 explosion and over 300 stitches.
Teamed with "The Rock," he formed half of one of the most popular tag teams in WWE history — "The Rock ’n Sock Connection," which went on to win the World Tag Team Championship three times. Individually, he captured the WWE Championship three times — once in 1998 and twice in 1999.
He is also known for developing three distinct personas as a wrestler: Cactus Jack, a maniacal and bloodthirsty Western outlaw; Mankind, a tortured soul who hid behind a leather mask; and Dude Love, a smooth ladies’ man.
But clearly, Foley’s heart is as big as he is. Since 1992, he has sponsored the education of two children in the Philippines. One already graduated from the program in 2001. The wrestling superstar has participated in several Make-A-Wish Foundation events as well as making frequent surprise visits to children in hospitals. He’s visited various US military bases and hospitals too, raising the morale of troops.
Foley also visits schools and libraries, stressing the importance of education and reading in and out of the classrooms. His 1999 autobiography, "Have A Nice Day," reached No. 1 on the New York Times Bestseller List.
Foley will be the special referee during the three-way match among John Cena, "Triple H" and "Angle" at the Araneta Coliseum. The event will also feature the wrestling world’s best and brightest including current WWE Champion Edge, International Champion Ric Flair, Women’s Champion Trish Stratus and the World Tag Team Champions Big Show.
Foley will also be visiting Gateway Mall, SM City North EDSA, SM Megamall and Glorietta Malls to meet fans during his tour.