Mick Foley continues to experience physical repercussions from his infamous Hell in a Cell match against The Undertaker at King of the Ring in 1998, requiring ongoing dental work decades after the event. Foley revealed in a recent interview that the trauma sustained during the match has led to the deterioration of teeth, necessitating approximately $25,000 in restorative procedures.
The match, widely regarded as one of the most brutal in professional wrestling history, saw Foley’s character endure multiple falls from the cell structure. While The Undertaker entered the match with a fractured ankle and underwent subsequent surgeries, Foley has dealt with lasting effects including altered gait and, more recently, significant dental issues. According to Foley, he has already lost two teeth as a direct result of the match.
“Not only are those two teeth gone, but the two next to it as of the trauma, are rotting out as we speak and will need to be replaced,” Foley stated in an interview with “Going Ringside,” as transcribed by Wrestling Inc. “So, we’re looking at about $25,000 in dental work for something that happened 26 years ago.”
Despite the ongoing costs and discomfort, Foley has previously stated his reluctance to replace the missing teeth. He views them as a tangible reminder of the historic match and a unique piece of wrestling memorabilia. He has described the sight of the gap in his smile as a daily connection to one of the defining moments of his career.
Brandon Nagy, a Detroit-area photographer and graphic designer, captured images of Foley, and his work is available through Shutterstock, among other platforms. Nagy’s portfolio includes editorial images, some of which feature professional wrestlers.
