Buddy Matthews, the professional wrestler currently sidelined due to an ankle injury, has recently offered an optimistic update amid his recovery journey. After undergoing surgery several months ago, Matthews has been steadily progressing and shared insights into his ongoing rehabilitation efforts with his followers.
The injury occurred at All Elite Wrestling’s Grand Slam event in Australia in February, when Matthews, who was competing against Kazuchika Okada for the AEW Continental Championship, sustained damage to his ankle during his entrance. Since then, the former WWE star and AEW World Trios Champion has been out of action, focusing on healing while preparing for a potential return to the ring.
Buddy Matthews’ Recovery Challenges and Gym Progress
In a recent Instagram video, Matthews displayed his commitment to recovery by performing shoulder press exercises at the gym. He described the last eight weeks following his ankle surgery as especially difficult, sharing that he still experiences chronic pain and numbness in his toes. Despite these ongoing hardships, Matthews remains determined to push through the discomfort and continue his rehabilitation.
“I’m not that guy who goes on social media & portrays the perfect life without down periods! The Last 8 weeks has been extremely hard since my ankle surgery & to this day I still can’t feel my toes with chronic pain! But we push forward, we make the best of what we have! Life isn’t always full of Rainbows 🌈 & Butterflies! Be your own “self motivated hero!” he wrote
— Buddy Matthews, Professional Wrestler
This candid message reinforces Matthews’ resolve and the realistic challenges athletes face during injury recovery. His transparency has resonated with fans and peers, highlighting his dedication to overcoming adversity as he works toward returning to professional wrestling.
A Glimpse into Buddy Matthews’ Support System with Rhea Ripley
Alongside his solo recovery updates, Matthews recently shared a lighter moment featuring his partner, fellow wrestler Rhea Ripley. The couple regularly posts glimpses of their lives together, showcasing their mutual support both inside and outside the wrestling world. In one Instagram post, Matthews demonstrated his workout routine by performing triceps pushdowns while carrying Ripley on his back as extra weight.
He captioned the video by acknowledging the stabilizing influence Ripley has in his life, calling her “Mami” and noting that she literally helps keep him grounded. This moment of levity and connection has drawn attention from WWE stars such as Chelsea Green, reflecting the positive energy surrounding Matthews despite his injury setback.
“@rhearipley_wwe keeps me grounded… “literally”” he wrote
— Buddy Matthews, Professional Wrestler
The Path Forward for Buddy Matthews and His Wrestling Career
Buddy Matthews’ recent updates reveal a journey marked by persistence and realistic struggle, but also by hope for a successful comeback. His ankle injury, sustained during a high-profile AEW event, interrupted his rising momentum in the wrestling world, but his ongoing rehabilitation efforts and motivational mindset indicate that a return to active competition remains a serious goal.
Fans and fellow wrestlers alike are watching closely as Matthews rebuilds his strength and mobility. The support from his partner Rhea Ripley and the encouragement from peers contribute to a foundation that may help him reclaim his place in the ring. As Matthews continues to navigate the challenges of ankle recovery, his transparency and drive emphasize resilience, which could inspire other athletes facing similar setbacks.
