Mark Henry Reveals Reason Behind Signing WWE Nostalgia Deal

Mark Henry is back in business with WWE—but don’t call it a Legends deal.

The WWE Hall of Famer revealed during his UK DJ tour with Sweet Chin Disco that he’s officially signed a nostalgia contract with WWE, marking his return to the company in a behind-the-scenes way. But according to Henry, this isn’t your typical WWE arrangement.

Speaking to Ghost Bandit, Henry explained the big difference between a nostalgia deal and a Legends contract. “A legacy [Legends] deal is you go and do things when they want you to and you represent WWE. You’re doing ads, you can do stuff. I’m Mark Henry, if I’m going to do ads, I’m gonna do them for myself. They come with a different pay.”

Instead, Henry opted for a nostalgia deal—focused more on licensing than appearances. “What I’m doing with a nostalgia deal is WWE has relationships with Mattel and 2K, where they make the video games… That’s what that WWE deal entails. The right to use my name and likeness because I own it. They can’t use that without my permission because then they would be liable and I would sue them for monies for using what’s mine.”

The decision wasn’t just about protecting his brand—it was about legacy. Henry shared that the move also helps create a pathway for his kids to follow in his footsteps. “I’m happy to do it because I have a son that is going to be wrestling, maybe my daughter now… I wanted to open the door and create another relationship so they could go in there and do well.”

His son, Jacob Henry, officially signed with WWE in summer 2024. Meanwhile, his daughter Joanna is also putting in the work, finishing fifth in her high school state wrestling championships earlier this year.

Mark Henry’s nostalgia deal keeps his legacy intact while setting the stage for the next generation of the Henry family to leave their mark.

What do you think about Mark Henry’s approach? Should more legends protect their names this way? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you feel about the World’s Strongest Family making moves.