WWE helped promote it through an on-screen angle ( a fictional storyline used in wrestling ) . This involved the heel Chris Jericho criticizing legendary retired wrestlers such as Ric Flair , who he felt were embarrassing themselves , as well as Mickey Rourke for his portrayal in '' The Wrestler '' . At the 15th Screen Actors Guild Awards , Rourke announced he would be competing at WrestleMania XXV , specifically targeting Jericho . The announcement led to a confrontation between the two on '' Larry King Live '' , which showed signs of second thoughts from Rourke . On January 28 , it was announced through Rourke 's spokesperson that the actor would not compete at the event , and he was soon after announced instead as a guest
15th Screen Actors Guild Awards
15th Screen Actors Guild Awards
The Wrestler (2008 film)