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Dustin Rhodes Opens Up on Knee Surgery Recovery and Future Plans

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Wrestling veteran Dustin Rhodes recently shared a heartfelt update on his recovery following double knee replacement surgery, revealing that two weeks after the operation, he is beginning to shed his dressings and embark on a slow, careful rehabilitation process. Rhodes expressed surprise at how he had managed to wrestle through persistent knee pain over the past five years and conveyed gratitude for the support and prayers from his fans and community.

He stated,

“Today marks 2 wks since surgury. Don’t really know how I was doing it these last 5 yrs. Knees were destroyed. Dressing off finally. I look forward to a slow and methodical rehab. Slow and steady. Thank yall for all of your support and prayers. God has it under control.”

Dustin Rhodes, Professional Wrestler

Context of Rhodes’ Wrestling Career and Physical Challenges

Dustin Rhodes, known for his resilience inside the ring, has faced significant physical challenges during his extensive career, which now includes the recovery from serious knee issues. His willingness to undergo double knee replacement surgery after years of struggling with damage highlights the toll professional wrestling can take on an athlete’s body. This update offers insight into his determination to rehabilitate steadily and cautiously in order to return to fitness and possibly wrestling activities in the future.

His focus on a methodical rehab plan suggests a careful balance between respecting his body’s limits and fostering recovery progress.

Wrestling Industry Developments and Related Updates

Meanwhile, the wrestling world continues to evolve with notable news surrounding various promotions and personalities. AEW has announced branding details for its upcoming three-hour Dynamite/Collision block, although its recent Collision show recorded its lowest ratings of 2025. WWE has adjusted the start time for its All Out event to avoid conflicting with WWE Wrestlepalooza, demonstrating the ongoing strategic maneuvering between major wrestling brands.

Dustin Rhodes
Image of: Dustin Rhodes

In other AEW-related news, the organization filed a trademark for the tag team name The Swirl,” representing Blake Christian and Lee Johnson, signaling an intention to bolster their tag team division. Additionally, ROH plans to air a special episode on YouTube following its regular Thursday Honor Club broadcast, including a title defense match where Lee Moriarty will face Josh Woods in Philadelphia.

Wrestling Icons Reflect on Careers and Connections

Several wrestling legends recently shared their perspectives on their careers and current wrestling scenes. Ric Flair reminisced about his favorite cities for wrestling, naming Tokyo—where he performed 68 times—as his top pick, followed by Chicago and Greensboro, North Carolina. Flair also spoke candidly about his in-ring relationship with Randy Savage, describing their chemistry as challenging due to differing approaches to rehearsal and match preparation.

Flair remarked,

“No, we had terrible chemistry. He wanted to rehearse and I didn’t rehearse. I only did it for WrestleMania. Instead of having a week off, I had to come to Tampa and wrestle for three hours a day with him to memorize a match. And that just wasn’t my style. You have to feel the crowd.”

Ric Flair, Wrestling Legend

Perspectives on Wrestling’s Global Reach and Talent

NXT Champion Oba Femi expressed optimism about WWE’s potential return to Africa, emphasizing the untapped enthusiasm for wrestling among African fans. He pointed out that a single show could reveal the widespread passion for wrestling on the continent, despite possible cultural concerns, which he believes are manageable and subject to understanding.

Lex Luger shared his admiration for the wrestling talent currently showcased, especially praising female wrestlers for their high level of athleticism and performance. He noted the incredible feats in women’s matches, attributing their skills partly to gymnastics and cheerleading backgrounds, and voiced appreciation for the constant evolution of wrestling styles and talents.

Femi commented,

“1000 percent, yeah. I still think the market is very untapped. I don’t know if they know how crazy people go for this company over there, but all they need is one show to make them realize. I’m sure there is [cultural concerns], but it’s not anything that you can’t find out. You can always fix fear of the unknown.”

Oba Femi, NXT Champion

Luger said,

“I don’t sit down like all the time and watch everything, but I definitely want to be up to speed on what’s going on, for sure. I love it. Man, there’s so many good ones, obviously. Cody [Rhodes], I love him. My association with his father – and that’s the first thing that pops in my mind. There’s so many great talents. What blows my mind now are the women. I mean, what they do in the ring now. A lot of times their matches are way better than the guys. I don’t know if it’s their gymnastics background or their cheerleading – but, man, they do unbelievable stuff. I love watching a lot of their matches now.”

Lex Luger, Wrestling Veteran

Ongoing Storylines and Upcoming Wrestling Events

Several scheduled matches and events are attracting attention in various promotions. Major League Wrestling has booked a Lightning match between Satoshi Kojima and Mr. Thomas for the Fightland event taking place in North Richland Hills, Texas, on September 13. Meanwhile, ROH’s Action Dean 3 in Philadelphia will feature Lee Moriarty defending his Pure title against Josh Woods.

TV programming continues to play an important role, with WWE uploading a full segment of DIY’s return to NXT and various podcasts offering detailed commentary on recent wrestling occurrences, including Matt Riddle’s response to allegations about his absence from a UK charity event and Rampage Jackson discussing a recent incident involving his son Raja Jackson.

Remembering Wrestling Figures and Paying Tribute

In a touching tribute, Cheeseburger remembered the late Hana Kimura on what would have been her 28th birthday. He expressed how much she is missed and encouraged others to cherish their loved ones. He also reflected on Hana’s potential, noting she would almost certainly be performing regularly on WWE or AEW television today.

Cheeseburger shared,

“Happy 28th Birthday Hana-Chan. I miss you everyday! Hug your loved ones close everyday and tell your people you love them before they’re gone! It pains me to know that Hana would 100% be wrestling weekly on TV for WWE or AEW right now.”

—Cheeseburger, Wrestling Personality

Significance of Dustin Rhodes’ Update and Future Outlook

Dustin Rhodes’ update offers a hopeful glimpse into the future of a respected wrestler committed to overcoming injury and maintaining a place in the industry. His measured approach to recovery highlights the physical demands wrestlers face and the importance of health beyond the spotlight. Fans and colleagues alike are watching his progress closely, anticipating his return and potential contributions to wrestling’s evolving landscape.

As Rhodes embarks on rehabilitation, the wrestling community continues to adapt and thrive with new talent, fresh storylines, and expanding opportunities across global markets. His journey represents both individual resilience and the broader wrestling world’s dynamic nature, signaling optimism for what lies ahead.

Thomas Schultz
Thomas Schultz
Thomas Schultz is a journalist at CynicalTimes.org, covering the AEW Men’s Division. With one year of experience, he reports on match results, storyline developments, and the rising stars shaping All Elite Wrestling. Thomas brings a fresh perspective and a commitment to accurate, engaging coverage of AEW’s top talent and weekly action. His writing captures the energy, rivalries, and momentum behind one of wrestling’s fastest-growing promotions. From major title bouts to emerging contenders, Thomas keeps fans up to date on everything happening in the AEW men’s roster.
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