Ric Flair, the legendary 16-time World Champion, has confirmed what many have suspected: he is content with the idea of dying in the public eye. This revelation follows another spat with veteran wrestler Dutch Mantell.
Flair, who had a heart attack during his last match in 2022, was criticized by Mantell on his podcast, Story Time with Dutch Mantell. Mantell remarked, “He could have very well died in that match. But knowing Flair, he’d want to be in the ring, surrounded by fans, even in death, to remain the center of attention.”
In response, Flair posted on social media, expressing his agreement with Mantell’s comments. He acknowledged his brush with death during the match but reaffirmed his desire to remain in the spotlight. Flair stated, “Dutch, I agree with you. I was lucky not to die in the ring during my last match. But you’re right, I do want to die in the limelight. I’ve been in it since I was 15. I’m 75 now, still in the limelight, and still the main event!”
Mantell fired back, emphasizing the risks Flair takes with his health and referencing a recent scandal involving Flair at a pizza restaurant. “Ric, if you want to die in the ring, that’s your choice. Just know you’ll die a star, though many will see it as a foolish end. Stay out of pizza joints,” Mantell quipped on social media.
Flair, currently with All Elite Wrestling, made his one-night return to the ring in July 2022 for an event titled Ric Flair’s Last Match. The show, promoted by Flair’s son-in-law Conrad Thompson and David Crockett, faced heavy criticism due to Flair’s serious health concerns, including a near-death experience in 2017.
Post-match, Flair revealed that he passed out twice during the bout, initially attributing it to dehydration. He later learned from a medical exam that he had suffered a heart attack during the match. Mantell reiterated his disapproval, arguing that Flair’s insistence on wrestling despite the risks showcases a disregard for his own life as long as he remains in the spotlight.
Mantell summed up his thoughts, stating, “Everything about Flair is about being the center of attention. Do what you want, Ric. I’m pulling for you, but I think you’re a piece of crap. Enjoy your life.”
Ric Flair’s career has always been marked by his larger-than-life personality and his need for the limelight, a trait he seems determined to carry with him to the very end.
