WWE legend Mick Foley responds to Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp after ‘Mr Socko’ celebration

With the Royal Rumble taking place over the weekend, Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp celebrated with a timely nod to the WWE.

After equalising from the penalty spot in a 2-2 draw with Norwich on Saturday, the forward pulled out the sock puppet made famous by Mick Foley’s character Mankind.

Fans of the Attitude Era will remember the prop known as ‘Mr Socko’ being used as part of Foley’s finishing move the ‘Mandible Claw’ in which he would stuff his covered hand into his opponent’s mouth.

WWE Hall of Famer Foley was aware of the tribute and sent Sharp a message on social media thanking him.

Sharp responded to the former wrestler by hailing him as an inspiration, followed by a series of sock emojis.

The 32-year-old has enjoyed a prolific season in front of goal for the Blades, netting 19 times in 29 appearances.

He is not the first player to celebrate using a memorable wrestling move.

Last season, Wycombe Wanderers forward Adebayo Akinfenwa performed the People’s Elbow, the signature finisher of Hollywood superstar The Rock, on team-mate Luke O’Nien.