Several wrestling stars have recently responded with concern to a Dustin Rhodes health update regarding Rebel, an AEW talent currently battling severe pneumonia. Rebel, who has been absent from AEW television for several years, revealed that she is hospitalized and undergoing intravenous antibiotic treatment at the Mayo Clinic.
Rebel, 47, was last seen competing in an independent wrestling match in 2024 for GLCW but has since withdrawn from the ring due to critical health challenges. Previously, she accompanied Britt Baker to the ring during the pandemic and competed on AEW Dark before her condition worsened and she was sidelined in 2021.
Rebel’s Shift From Behind the Scenes to In-Ring Performer
Before her recent struggles, Rebel transitioned roles within the wrestling industry, navigating between makeup artistry and wrestling itself. Initially part of the Jacksonville-based promotion as a makeup artist after her time with IMPACT Wrestling (formerly TNA), she found herself returning to the camera spotlight as her in-ring career developed.
Reflecting on this journey in an interview on Wilde On, Rebel shared how she moved away from makeup work to focus exclusively on wrestling, acknowledging a loss of passion for behind-the-scenes roles.
“After I left IMPACT, I was like, ‘let’s try again,’ and I started doing hair and makeup and got thrown in front of the camera again. At this point, I have now said, ‘God, I hear you.’ I know now your will for me is this. I’m going to accept it and quit fighting it. I don’t do the hair and makeup anymore. Just strictly on-camera talent. That’s what I plan to keep doing. I’ve lost my passion for makeup and hair,” she said. [H/T – Fightful]
AEW Peers Offer Support and Well Wishes
In light of Rebel’s disclosure about her hospitalization, numerous well-known AEW figures, including Dustin Rhodes, Chris Jericho, Thunder Rosa, Red Velvet, and Karen Jarrett, have expressed their heartfelt support and prayers. Their responses highlight the close-knit community within the promotion and their concern for Rebel’s well-being during this difficult time.
Rebel’s Wrestling Career and Health Setbacks
Rebel’s career, marked by appearances across AEW and independent circuits, has been increasingly impacted by health difficulties since 2021. Her perseverance was evident as she continued to participate in matches, including on AEW Dark, before ultimately stepping away due to pneumonia complications. This serious illness has now put her in a critical condition requiring intensive medical care.
Implications and Future Prospects for Rebel and AEW
Rebel’s current health situation raises questions about her potential return to wrestling and her role within AEW moving forward. While previous injuries and ongoing treatment have limited her in-ring appearances, the support from fellow wrestlers and fans underscores the hope for her recovery. How her health evolves will likely influence any decisions about resuming her wrestling career or continuing in other capacities within the industry.
