AEW star Dustin Rhodes, despite a serious injury that requires surgery, has vowed to return to the ring and capture the AEW World Championship before retiring. This determination follows a recent high-profile match where Rhodes lost the TNT Championship but earned widespread acclaim for his performance.
Dustin Rhodes Commits to Overcoming Injury and Chasing the AEW World Title
Recently, Dustin Rhodes participated in a match against Kyle Fletcher that many consider one of the year’s best and most brutal contests. Although Rhodes was defeated and lost the TNT Championship, the bout showcased his enduring toughness and skill. Unfortunately, the match also resulted in a significant leg injury that will require double knee surgery.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Rhodes shared a candid update about the condition of his knees, revealing that his meniscus is effectively nonexistent in both. At 56 years old, he emphasized the motivation his work ethic, passion for wrestling, and even the voices urging him to retire provide. He asserted that age is merely a number and reiterated his resolve to win the AEW World Title before ending his career.
My meniscus is non existent in both lol. It’s work ethic and love that pushes me through. Its people telling me to retire that pushes me even more! I am still, at 56, one of the greatest professional wrestlers in the world. Age s just a number. Sometimes you have to manifest shit and get it done. I absolutely know my time is nearing the end but NOT YET! Gotta get the world title as that should be every pro wrestlers goal.” —Dustin Rhodes
Insights Into Dustin Rhodes’s Retirement Plans Within AEW
Last year, in 2024, Dustin Rhodes opened up about his plans to conclude his long wrestling career with AEW, describing the promotion as his true home. He emphasized the respect and appreciation he feels from the organization’s leadership, his fellow roster members, and the fans, which fuels his desire to continue pushing himself professionally.
Rhodes expressed deep gratitude for the support received from AEW president Tony Khan and highlighted the meaningful connections formed with wrestlers in the AEW locker rooms. Additionally, he credited his family as his foundational support system throughout his career.
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
What Dustin Rhodes’s Determination Means for AEW and Wrestling Fans
Dustin Rhodes’s pledge to return from surgery and claim the AEW World Title exemplifies his resilience and passion for professional wrestling, even in the face of significant physical setbacks. His ongoing commitment not only motivates fans but also inspires fellow wrestlers, signaling that perseverance and dedication remain powerful forces in the sport.
As one of the founding figures of AEW, Rhodes’s pursuit of a world championship before retirement adds a compelling narrative to the promotion’s evolving landscape. His journey following recovery will be closely watched, with many anticipating a triumphant comeback that cements his legacy alongside Tony Khan’s vision for the company.
Rhodes’s story serves as a vivid reminder that in professional wrestling, as in life, determination and love for the craft can defy challenges, creating moments that fans and athletes alike hold dear for years to come.
