Dustin Rhodes, known for his intense career spanning over two decades with three singles titles and a recent AEW TNT Championship pursuit, is now sidelined indefinitely due to serious knee issues. Following his loss to Kyle Fletcher on the July 31 episode of “AEW Collision,” Rhodes revealed that he requires double knee replacement surgery but has no plans to retire soon.
According to the latest Wrestling Observer newsletter by Dave Meltzer, Rhodes made it clear during his July 11th match at ROH’s Super Card of Honor that it would likely be his last for a while, as he wanted to go out on a high note before surgery. Unfortunately, the prognosis is more severe than initially thought, as Rhodes needs to have both knees replaced. Meltzer noted that it is rare for wrestlers to replace both knees simultaneously because the recovery process is extremely painful, often leading them to do one knee at a time. Rhodes’s position in the wrestling world is significant, especially considering his role in AEW alongside talents like Sammy Guevara and the von Erichs, highlighting the importance of maintaining his legacy within the promotion.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for AEW supporters as Dustin Rhodes is not only a beloved veteran but a key figure bridging wrestling’s past and present. His injury and recovery will be closely watched, and his eventual return could inspire a powerful comeback story, reinforcing AEW’s commitment to both showcasing established stars and nurturing new talent.
