At AEW’s All In event held at Globe Life Field in Texas, Adam Cole shocked fans by announcing he would be stepping away due to a health issue linked to a concussion, sparking widespread speculation about his wrestling future. The incident unfolded after AEW President Tony Khan revealed on the Zero Hour pre-show that Cole was unable to defend the TNT Championship against Kyle Fletcher, leading to Cole relinquishing the title in a somber in-ring moment alongside Roderick Strong and Kyle O’Reilly.
This unexpected development contrasted sharply with the overall energy of the event, which saw a high point when Dustin Rhodes won the vacant TNT Championship in a four-way match against Fletcher, Daniel Garcia, and Sammy Guevara. Rhodes now holds multiple titles, including his first AEW championship alongside tag team titles in ROH, further marking a significant milestone in his career.
Cole’s last match took place during the AEW Collision episode in Garland, Texas, when he sustained the concussion that precipitated his withdrawal. Multiple sources confirm this injury as the reason for his absence from All In’s main card.
Details of the Injury and Its Impact on Cole’s Career
The AEW Collision event prior to All In featured a 14-minute opening bout where Adam Cole’s team faced off against The Don Callis Family members. During this match, Cole took a lariat to the jaw from Kyle Fletcher, resulting in the concussion. Despite staying down momentarily and consulting with the referee, Cole completed the match, eventually securing a pin against Rocky Romero.
Bryan Alvarez reported on Wrestling Observer Live that Cole initially appeared stable following the injury, but after further assessment, he informed Tony Khan about his concussion symptoms. Discussions led to the decision to pull Cole from future in-ring activity until he recuperates.
Adam Cole’s Moment of Doubt and Mention of Retirement
During his emotional speech at All In, Cole hinted at retirement, expressing hesitation about continuing his career given his current mental and physical condition. According to Ringside News and Alvarez, Cole was prepared to retire that night but ultimately decided against making the final call.
“From what I can gather… [Cole] was pretty much ready to go out on Saturday and retire, and I guess cooler heads prevailed, and it’s exactly as he said. He was like, ‘I’m not in the right headspace to make that decision right now.’ … [Cole’s] future as a wrestler is very much in doubt, and it’s just going to be a matter of time when he feels he’s in the right headspace, he’s going to make a decision, and we’ll see what happens,” Alvarez said. —Bryan Alvarez, Wrestling Observer Live
Multiple sources have clarified that this situation is not part of any storyline or scripted drama. Alvarez emphasized that everything Cole communicated at All In was entirely genuine, underscoring the seriousness of his condition and mindset.
What This Means for Adam Cole and AEW Going Forward
Adam Cole’s current health issues and his candid admission of contemplating retirement cast uncertainty over his wrestling career. His absence leaves a significant gap within AEW’s competitive roster, especially given his position as the former TNT Champion and a key figure in prominent factions. Fans and insiders alike await Cole’s recovery and future decisions, knowing that his return will depend heavily on his physical and mental readiness.
AEW will continue to adapt its storylines and championship scene while prioritizing Cole’s well-being. His injuries serve as a sobering reminder of the physical toll professional wrestling demands, highlighting the need for careful management of athlete health. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether Cole chooses to return to the ring or step away from wrestling permanently.
