WWE wrestler Kane becomes Tennessee county mayor

WWE wrestler Kane, alias Glenn Jacobs, was elected as the new mayor of Knox County, Tennessee on Friday. 

His evolution from a burn victim in 1998 to a political leader in 2018 surprised the world. As a hardcore wrestler for WWE, he has gained incredible recognition among people. 

The 51-year-old Republican ran on issues like keeping taxes low, improved infrastructure and "transparency". He ran as a Republican, defeating Democratic candidate Linda Haney 31,739 votes to 16,611.

He is the second WWE star to win public office in the US, following in Jesse Ventura's footsteps.

Dustin Rhodes, Kane's longtime friend, also congratulated him by tweeting about the big win on social media to showcase his support. 

Congratulations to my best friend and new #KnoxCountyMayor @GlennJacobsTN . So proud of you pal. You are going to be an excellent Mayor. @KnoxvilleTN is lucky to have you. Great job. Love ya pic.twitter.com/oyp23C5IYI

— Dustin Rhodes (@Goldust) August 3, 2018

The WWE and many of his colleagues wished him the best of luck on his new journey.

A little bit of Election Night TV magic. Our favorite Politico, @WATE_Mark taking matters into his own hands talking to Glenn Jacobs, Republican primary winner for Knox Co. Mayor. #WATE pic.twitter.com/UcN0rCZDjW

— Madisen Keavy (@madisenkeavy) August 3, 2018

Congratulations to @KaneWWE on being elected Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee! https://t.co/I4E5YQhYCC

— WWE (@WWE) August 3, 2018

Congratulations, Machine that is Big & Red.. I KNEW YOU’D WIN! pic.twitter.com/CIUj5XkDdR

— #WOKEN Matt Hardy (@MATTHARDYBRAND) August 3, 2018

It remains unclear if Glenn plans to hang up his mask for good, in order to allow him to focus on his political career. He last appeared as Kane just a few weeks ago in June.

Glenn, who also owns an insurance business in Knoxville, will be sworn in as mayor on September 1.

In response to all the support and love, Kane humbly thanked everyone and promised to keep up to their confidence in him. 

Thanks to everyone who voted in Knox County yesterday. I am humbled by the confidence that you have placed in me. I promise that I will always do my best and I will always put the interests of the people of Knox... https://t.co/6jTUigggio

— Glenn Jacobs (@GlennJacobsTN) August 4, 2018