AEW fans have received a troubling Buddy Matthews ankle injury update, with word that the Australian wrestler’s recovery has hit major complications and his in-ring return remains unclear. Matthews’ hopes for a rapid comeback have faded, as he now confronts a chronic ankle issue that threatens his career momentum.
Momentum Halted by Sudden Ankle Injury
Buddy Matthews has been the subject of high expectations since joining AEW, with supporters eager to see him step out as a solo star. He was scheduled for a breakout match against Kazuchika Okada for the Continental Championship at Grand Slam Australia, a bout that could have elevated his career. Instead, Matthews suffered a significant setback after a rough landing during his entrance left him with an ankle injury at the start of the match. Despite the pain, he chose to continue wrestling.
In April, Buddy provided an initial injury assessment, clarifying that, while he avoided a full break, he sustained a partial ligament tear and cartilage damage. At the time, optimism surrounded his return, as he expressed hopes to re-enter the ring quickly. However, progress toward healing did not go as planned.
Recovery Stalls, Concerns of Chronic Damage Arise
After April, updates from Matthews were scarce, though some videos emerged showing him working out and keeping fit. These glimpses had sparked optimism among fans yearning for his comeback. But comments from his recent Instagram Live appearance have shifted the outlook from hopeful to deeply troubled.
Matthews openly discussed the ongoing struggles with his ankle, revealing little to no improvement in its condition. His remarks clarified the persistent severity of the injury and dashed immediate hopes for an in-ring return.
“The ankle is not recovering as well as I thought it would be. There’s no mobility to it; if I can’t have mobility, I can’t move properly. Once it hits 3 months without healing, it becomes chronic… I thought I’d be back in the ring in April.”
—Buddy Matthews
The prospect of the injury now becoming chronic marks a significant worry, not only for Matthews but for the organization and his fanbase. This lingering lack of mobility threatens to delay his already derailed singles push and possible ascent within AEW.
Uncertain Road Ahead for AEW and Fans
As the ankle injury worsens, the immediate future is clouded with doubt for both Matthews and AEW’s creative plans involving him. His wrestling style demands full ankle mobility, and the risk of lasting effects underscores the seriousness of his chronic setback.
For fans who hoped to see Matthews compete for the Continental Championship or challenge top-tier stars like Kazuchika Okada, the frustrating delay creates disappointment and concern about how long AEW will be without one of its most dynamic talents. While supporters continue to hope, all eyes remain on Buddy Matthews and further updates regarding the trajectory of his recovery and eventual return to the ring.
