TNA on verge of getting Foley from WWE

TNA landed one of its biggest coups in the five-year history of the company with the imminent acquisition of Mick Foley.

According to sources, Foley has agreed to contractual terms, but it's not clear when he can legally begin working for TNA.

The hardcore legend has been unhappy in his recent role as WWE's Smackdown color commentator, and reportedly has decided to end his short-lived stint when his contract expires Sept. 1.

TNA officials, who nearly landed Foley a few years ago before Vince McMahon offered him a more lucrative deal, have felt that his name value alone would immediately have an impact on TV ratings and pay-per-view buyrates. With his body in no shape to do anything more than an occasional special match, Foley's worth to the company could take shape in many other forms, including creatively behind the scenes and working as a highly recognizable and respected goodwill ambassador, much like Ric Flair was for WWE.

Foley is expected to command a salary and schedule similar to that of Sting (Steve Borden), who works on a part-time basis and makes in the $600,000 range, one of the better deals offered by the company. Sting currently is in negotiations regarding another year on his contract, although his impact on TV ratings and pay-per-view buys has been negligible over the past two years.

One former colleague expressed surprise by Foley's decision to leave WWE.

"He just (messed) himself up by doing that. It's the kiss of death. He'll never go the (WWE) Hall of Fame doing that, and may have jeopardized his status with the company."

--WWE suffered a major setback when it was announced last week that John Cena had suffered a herniated disc in his neck.

Cena's subsequent surgery was deemed a success, and the early prognosis is that he'll be able to return to the ring in less than four months, considerably sooner than the initial estimate of more than a year. It was feared that Cena, 31, who had been experiencing numbness in his right arm, would be forced to undergo more extensive fusion surgery. The doctor removed a large disc fragment compression on the spinal cord that was weakening the nerve leading to Cena's right arm.

"I think John's prognosis is excellent," neurosurgeon Joseph Maroon told the WWE Web site. "He should be able to return to wrestling in two to four months. John will be working out next week. We performed this same procedure on three all pro NFL players, and all three resumed their football careers."

WWE spokesperson Jennifer McIntosh downplayed the potential impact on the company.

"As much as he is appreciated, no single individual makes the WWE," she told the Stamford (Conn.) Advocate, noting that performers occasionally are out of the spotlight for extended periods of time, but the company makes adjustments.

Cena, one of WWE's top draws, ratings drivers and merchandise movers, was sidelined for nearly four months late last year after suffering a torn pectoral muscle. He made a sooner-than-expected return from surgery and was a surprise entrant in the Royal Rumble pay-per-view in late January.

--Birthday wishes go out to Jody "The Assassin" Hamilton, who turned 70 last week, and Lowcountry native Burrhead Jones, who turns 71 Monday. Jones, who now lives in New York City, invites his fans to call him at (843) 607-5482.

Reach Mike Mooneyham at (843) 937-5517 or mooneyham@postandcourier.com. For wrestling updates during the week, call The Post and Courier Info Line at (843) 937-6000, ext. 3090.