Wrestling legend Ric Flair has disclosed that he is battling skin cancer for the second time in three years. The 76-year-old icon, who previously denied any health problems and reassured fans that he was "absolutely great," shared that he will begin treatment soon.
Flair noted, "It’s been three years since I last dealt with skin cancer," and confirmed he is scheduled for treatment next week. Earlier, photos showing facial injuries sparked concern among fans, leading his podcast partner and son, Conrad Thompson, to address rumors online, stating, "He removed the skin cancer, but he continued."
Despite this, Flair initially tried to quiet the speculation with a defiant tweet saying, "I’m sorry people have been misled by social media, but I’m not of any kind of cancer. Thank you for your concern and for reaching out to everyone. I’m absolutely fine. Unfortunately, you have to live and hold on for another 25 years!"
He later explained that his initial denial was an effort to keep the diagnosis private until he was ready to share. Flair expressed gratitude for the support he’s received since revealing the truth.
Flair has faced serious health challenges over the years. In 2017, he was hospitalized with severe stomach pain, which led to kidney failure and a medically induced coma as he neared congestive heart failure, with survival odds at just 20%. He survived after surgery to remove part of his intestines and the implantation of a pacemaker.
In the 2022 Peacock documentary woooooo! It’s going to be a Ric Flair, his former partner Wendy Barlow shared that adopting his WWE persona helped him through his health struggles, saying, "I don’t know how he survived. What he did was that he didn’t need to feel to go back to Ric Flair and become a character."
Flair’s enduring resilience remains a focal point for fans, though some have criticized his initial downplaying of the diagnosis on social media. Despite his efforts to keep matters quiet, the truth eventually surfaced. Now, all eyes are on how Flair will approach this latest health battle. If history is any indication, Flair will face it with his signature style — whether he’s Stylin’, Profilin’, or Battlin’, he’ll do it the "Flair Style" way.
Fan Take: Ric Flair’s health struggles remind WWE fans of the real-life battles wrestlers face beyond the ring, adding a deeper layer of respect and admiration for their courage. His ongoing fight also highlights the importance of health awareness in the sport, which could inspire greater support and resources for wrestlers facing similar challenges.
