WWE News: Mark Henry narrates funny Vince McMahon story, reveals why he chose to retire, more
What’s the story?
In an interview with USA Today’s For The Win section, Mark Henry opened up on a myriad of topics.
Henry recalled the funny first phone call he had with WWE boss Vince McMahon. Besides, Henry broached upon a few other topics including why he chose to announce his semi-retirement status.
In case you didn’t know…
Mark Henry boasts a long list of athletic accomplishments that include being a 2-time Olympian and, winning several accolades in weight-lifting & power-lifting.
Henry has performed for the WWE since 1996 and, is a former World Heavyweight Champion. From 2015 onwards, 'The World’s Strongest Man' wrestled sporadically, and eventually assumed a non-wrestling role as a producer in the WWE.
The heart of the matter
Mark Henry opened up on the time he was informed about his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame’s 2018 Class—
“It was a little while back. I was in Los Angeles with the powers that be… it was just an overwhelming feeling, you know? My face got hot. A couple of tears fell, and you felt like, instantly, all of the pain and torment that you put your body through, the sacrifices that you made – they were worth it. It paid it all off.”
Additionally, Henry recalled the time he first spoke to Vince McMahon on the phone and, hung up—following which, Henry’s manager alerted him that the call wasn’t a prank by his friends, and instead was WWE boss Vince McMahon. The latter then called up Henry to WWE Headquarters in Connecticut, and he’s been working with the promotion ever since.
Upon being probed as to how he’d like to be remembered 20 years from now, Henry elucidated that he’d like to be known for his strength as well as the fact that he was not selfish. Henry added that he intentionally tried to exert a positive influence on several other Superstars’ careers backstage in the WWE.
Henry then revealed the reason behind him stepping away from in-ring competition; explaining that around 2015 he started to feel his body slow down. Henry opined that it was a combination of his injuries and age and, that Father Time indeed remains undefeated.
Furthermore, Henry emphasized that much like Roddy Piper, The Rock & Batista, he’s pursuing a career in acting. Henry also noted that he’s now doing voice-acting, working on Disney cartoon shows, and using his time away from the ring to appear at the meet & greets for the fans.
What’s next?
Mark Henry presently serves as a producer in the WWE. He’s set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame with the ceremony taking place next month.
Author’s take
Mark Henry is perhaps one of the most honest, hard-working personalities in professional wrestling history.
Henry served as one of the WWE’s most consistent performers over the years, and we hereby congratulate The World’s Strongest Man on his WWE Hall of Fame induction.