Google News Dutch Mantell: "That's why Ric Flair wants to return to the ring"
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In a recent interview with James Romero for WSI, Dutch Mantell commented on Ric Flair's choice to return to the ring at 73 year-old. Mantell said: "I think Ric Flair is doing it only out of vanity. At his age and with all the problems he's had, it doesn't take a genius to realize it's not a wise decision.
Vanity is the only explanation that comes to mind." Bill Apter echoed him: "I hope that Ric Flair's status will not be affected by this choice. In the past, several wrestlers and boxers have returned as Ric and it didn't go well.
I perfectly remember the match between Muhammad Ali and Larry Holmes, just to name an example. It was clear that Ali was just a bad copy of the legendary boxer we had come to know. A few bad matches ended up ruining the latter part of his career.
Ric Flair could have the same fate. I don't know exactly what his physical condition is and what he's going to do in the ring. However, he has had several health problems over the past few years and - if I were him - I would avoid taking any further risks.
I hope with all my heart that nothing bad happens." As everyone knows by now, Ric Flair will return to battle on July 31, 2022. Eleven years after his last fight, the 'Nature Boy' has decided to get back into the game amid general skepticism.
While fans of him are enthusiastic, insiders and former colleagues believe it is not a wise move given Ric's age and state of health. In addition to being a 16-time world champion, Flair has amassed a myriad of accolades during his long and glorious career.
In 2012, he also became the first wrestler ever to be inducted twice into the WWE Hall of Fame, both individually and as a member of the Four Horsemen.