Mick Foley Looks Back at Legendary Death Match Against Terry Funk
In the world of professional wrestling, certain rivalries and matches leave an indelible mark on the sport’s history. One such iconic battle took place between Mick Foley and Terry Funk in the infamous King of the Death Match at Kawasaki Stadium in Japan on August 20, 1995. Now, years after Funk’s passing, Foley took the time to reminisce and pay tribute to his dear friend and their monumental showdown.
Foley, speaking on his podcast Foley is Pod, shared his nostalgic memories of the match that is widely regarded as one of the greatest death matches in wrestling history. With no prior discussion about the specific details, the two wrestlers dove headfirst into this brutal contest. Foley explained the lack of planning, mentioning that they had already faced each other twice before and were faced with the challenges of a scorching heatwave in Kawasaki. It was a battle with life and death stakes.
Despite the absence of design, this match left a lasting impact on the industry. Foley reflected on its legacy, stating, At one point, I think it was the most widely-watched bootleg—or just the most widely-watched match on VHS—of all time. It’s probably still up there. The intensity and spectacle of the match captivated audiences and solidified its place in wrestling history.
What made this encounter even more remarkable to Foley was the significance it held for his career. As he prepared with Funk, the veteran wrestler entered Foley’s dressing room, looking him in the eye and saying, You know I wouldn’t do this for many people. It was not simply about putting someone over in the wrestling world; Funk was acknowledging the magnitude of what he was about to do for Foley in Japan. It was an act of promotion and endorsement that propelled Foley’s status within the industry.
The bond between Foley and Funk extended beyond this monumental death match. Their paths intersected numerous times throughout their careers, wrestling together for various independent promotions worldwide. They even renewed their rivalry on American soil, competing for renowned promotions like ECW and WWE. Their partnership and shared history are inseparable when discussing the latter half of Funk’s illustrious career.
As Foley recollects his partnership with Funk, he pays tribute to a man who left an undeniable mark on the wrestling world. The King of the Death Match remains a pivotal moment in their intertwined legacy, and Foley cherishes the torch that Funk passed to him that fateful night in Kawasaki. Their unique bond and contributions continue to leave a lasting impact on professional wrestling, ensuring their place in its rich tapestry.
