Why Kurt Angle has Begged WWE Fans Not to Use Former Nickname

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has gone viral following an emotional tweet during which he begged fans not to use a nickname that he was known by earlier in his career. The 56-year-old wrestled his final WWE match in April 2019, losing to Baron Corbin at WrestleMania 35.

The 1996 Olympic gold medal winner would be released by the company a year later as a result of cost-cutting measures, bringing to an end his second stint with the company. He had previously worked for the promotion between October 1998 to August 2006, when he was fired for refusing to undergo treatment for addiction problems.

Following his release, Angle swiftly joined rival company TNA Wrestling, where he would enjoy a lighter schedule, but still struggle with personal challenges and substance abuse issues. He became so associated with his drug problems at the time that fans even gave him the nickname ‘Perc Angle’ – a reference to his reliance on the pain medication percocet.

Kurt Angle Admits That ‘Perc Angle’ Nickname Still Bothers Him

The WWE legend has now begged fans to stop using the term

Thankfully, Angle did eventually reach out for help – and has now been sober for 12 years. However, fans still continue to refer to him as ‘Perc Angle’ when discussing his in-ring career. Kurt recently opened up on how much this bothered him during an appearance on the Chris Van Vliet podcast, remarking that while he “knew it was a term of endearment,” he didn’t want them “to say it to my face”.

Addressing the fact that his former nickname had gone viral after the interview dropped, Angle wrote on social media:

“I’ve noticed the ‘Perc Angle’ nickname trending on social media. While I know it’s made in jest, it reminds me of a time when I struggled deeply with addiction and mental health challenges.”

He continued: “Those memories are painful, but they also fuel my commitment to helping others. I’ve been clean for 12 years and have since built a life dedicated to purpose and service. Addiction destroys lives, but it’s never too late to get help. I appreciate all the positive feedback and support. To my fans: thank you for never giving up on me. I love you all.”

The refreshingly honest post has been met with overwhelming support as Angle continues to work on a variety of projects following his in-ring retirement. The former four-time WWE Champion underwent surgery last year to insert artificial disc replacements in his neck in the hope of improving his motor functions and overall quality of life, but continues to work on content for his YouTube channel. In addition, he still makes non-wrestling live event appearances and is talks to make a movie about his remarkable life story.