On August 31st, during an episode of AEW Collision, Dustin Rhodes lost his TNT Championship to Kyle Fletcher in a brutal, bloodied match just 19 days after his victory at All In 2025. This intense defeat brought Rhodes’ title reign to an abrupt end and shortly afterward, he revealed he would be stepping away from wrestling due to a serious medical condition.
In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Rhodes confirmed he must undergo a major surgery and detailed his painful condition caused by the injury sustained during the match with Fletcher. This announcement marked a difficult but necessary pause in his All Elite Wrestling career as he prepares for extensive medical tests and treatment.
Details of Dustin Rhodes’ Medical Condition and Surgery
Rhodes shared his current health status with fans, expressing deep regret and pain while emphasizing his resolve to persevere. He wrote,
“Sorry guys, feel like I failed my fans. Gonna be out for a while as Doc said I need a very invasive major surgery. MRI’s and cat scans this week, due to Kyle Fletcher.In any case, for the time I was the face of TNT was special to me. I will never take what I have for granted.I am in a terrible amount of pain and have a hole in my leg, but that won’t stop me from #KeepSteppin” —Dustin Rhodes
He further clarified that his time as TNT Champion was meaningful and something he will always cherish. Despite the significant discomfort and seriousness of the injury, Rhodes is determined to continue fighting through his recovery.
While some fans speculated the injury might be part of a storyline, Rhodes dismissed those rumors, confirming that the surgery and pain are very real and not a kayfabe element.
A Career Rooted in AEW: Dustin Rhodes’ Intentions and Gratitude
Last year, Dustin Rhodes openly shared his plans to retire within AEW, expressing how much the promotion means to him. He highlighted the respect and support he has received from both the company and the fans, making AEW feel like home.
In an emotional message, Rhodes expressed,
“I will finish my career here at #AEW as I feel it is home to me. I have never felt respected and wanted like I have here. This makes me want to do my very best for Tony and push myself harder than I ever have. I feel loved and wanted here. I love all of our roster deeply. I want to thank the fans for all of your support. I want to thank the men and women in the locker rooms we have shared and created magic together.I want to thank Tony Khan for believing in me and relying on me in so many ways. I won’t let you down. I love it here in #AEW and can’t wait to see where the next few yrs take me. And last but not least, I want to thank my family for their support. They are the true rockstars !!” —Dustin Rhodes
This statement conveys the strong bond Rhodes feels with the AEW community, including Tony Khan and his fellow wrestlers, and his appreciation for the unwavering support from his family, whom he calls “the true rockstars.”
Impact of Rhodes’ Surgery on AEW and Future Prospects
While the exact duration of Rhodes’ recovery remains unknown, his absence will likely affect AEW storylines and the TNT Championship scene, considering his significant role as one of the promotion’s foundational stars. His decision to share honest health updates keeps fans connected during this difficult period.
Fans and commentators alike anticipate a strong comeback, reflecting Rhodes’ steadfast determination to “keep steppin” despite the challenges. His continued presence in AEW remains welcomed, and his journey through rehabilitation will be closely followed by the wrestling community.
Meanwhile, AEW continues to evolve, and Rhodes’ legacy as a respected original talent remains intact, underscoring the gravity of his current situation and heightening hopes for a successful recovery and eventual return to the ring.
