Dustin Rhodes, currently sidelined from All Elite Wrestling (AEW) following double knee replacement surgery, will make a special non-wrestling appearance at Crufts in March 2026. The event, held at The NEC in Birmingham, England, is set to run from March 5 to 8, where Rhodes will attend alongside his Mastiff, showcasing a different side of the former TNT Champion while he continues his recovery.
Rehabilitation and Future Plans
Rhodes has been out of action since July last year due to severe knee injuries requiring surgery. Although a ring comeback remains uncertain and likely months away, the wrestler is making public appearances that keep his profile active among fans. This marks his first confirmed event outside AEW since the operation, signaling a positive step in his rehabilitation process.
Bringing an Award-Winning Mastiff to Crufts
During the prestigious dog show, Rhodes will present his Mastiff named Beast, known as the number one breed across all categories in the U.S., and ranked as the seventh best working dog nationally. Beast boasts an impressive 13 Best in Show titles. Rhodes shared on Twitter,
“I am so excited to be attending @Crufts this yr in #BirminghamUK as I will be bringing my Mastiff and #1 breed/all breed in the U.S., and the #7 working dog in the country with 13 Best in Shows, #Beast. Look forward to meeting all of you there. We have Americas top handler who takes great care of our #Beast, Terry Smith.” — Dustin Rhodes, Professional Wrestler
Rhodes also acknowledged the roles of Kimberly Harac, the breeder, and Terry Smith, the handler responsible for Beast’s care during the event. The presence of Beast offers a remarkable display of the Mastiff’s grandeur to the attendees.
Anticipated Impact and Next Steps
The upcoming Crufts appearance highlights Rhodes’ determination to remain engaged with his followers despite physical setbacks. It also underscores his passion beyond wrestling through his involvement with champion dogs and the wider animal community. Fans and commentators have speculated that March 2026 could coincide with a potential AEW return, making this showcase at Crufts not only a promotional activity but possibly a symbol of Rhodes’ gradual return to the public eye and professional wrestling ring.
I am so excited to be attending @Crufts this yr in #BirminghamUK as I will be bringing my Mastiff and #1 breed/all breed in the U.S. , and the #7 working dog in the country with 13 Best in Shows, #Beast. Look forward to meeting all of you there. We have Americas top handler who… pic.twitter.com/wGov2Xauud
— Dustin Rhodes (@dustinrhodes) February 18, 2026
