WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair has expressed his disappointment with Cleveland Cavaliers star guard Donovan Mitchell, who missed Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Boston Celtics due to a calf injury. Flair took to social media to voice his disapproval, questioning Mitchell's commitment to the team and the city of Cleveland.
WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair has sparked controversy with his comments on Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell, who missed Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Boston Celtics due to a calf injury. Flair, known for his legendary wrestling career, took to Twitter to express his displeasure, questioning Mitchell's dedication to the team and the city of Cleveland.
"Sore calf? Really?" Flair tweeted. "You would think for 32 million dollars annual salary that you could have participated in the game tonight and represented Cleveland! I’ve wrestled in rotator cuffs, after almost dying from surgeries & airplane crashes, and never missed a match."
Flair's comments have drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. Some have praised Flair for speaking his mind and calling out Mitchell for his absence, while others have criticized the wrestler for being insensitive to Mitchell's injury.
Mitchell suffered the calf strain during Game 3 of the series, which is why he wasn't able to play in Game 4's 109-102 loss that moved the series, 3-1, in favor of Boston. It also doesn't help that Caris LeVert, who replaced Mitchell in the starting lineup in Game 4, couldn't play in Game 5 due to a bone bruise in his left knee.
Meanwhile, Flair has a different perspective on not disappointing fans as, like he said, wrestling with injuries was commonplace in his heyday.
"I could never imagine missing an opportunity to star in a playoff game for the NBA Championship," Flair continued. "And you represent Cleveland, so disappointed! Apparently tonight you are taking the night off at the expense of your whole team."
Mitchell and the rest of the injured Cavs understood what was at stake before tip-off on Wednesday night, and they clearly weren't able to go. But Cavs fans like Flair don't agree with the decision to sit in a game that determines if there will be a Game 6, or Cleveland's 2023-24 campaign comes to a close.
At the time of Flair's tweet, the Celtics were winning in Game 5. The outcome of the game could have a significant impact on the series, and Flair's comments are sure to add fuel to the fire.
It remains to be seen whether Mitchell will be able to return for Game 6, if necessary. The Cavs will need all hands on deck if they want to extend the series and keep their championship hopes alive.
