Kenny Omega is publicly addressing his ongoing health struggles following a severe diverticulitis attack in late 2023 that nearly cost him his life. The former AEW World Champion detailed the difficult recovery process during a recent interview on Wrestling Observer Radio, explaining how his wrestling career and everyday life have been deeply affected by this medical crisis.
Understanding the Impact of Diverticulitis and Surgery on His Wrestling
In conversation with Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez, Omega admitted that he is no longer the same competitor inside the ring. He reflected on how trying to keep pace with younger, fitter wrestlers now sets him apart in ways he does not want.
I feel in the pursuit of just staying at the same pace that the younger, healthier talent are moving at, I feel in situations like that I wouldn’t be able to stand out — or I would stand out in a different kind of way, a negative way.
—Kenny Omega
Omega emphasized that he avoids drawing focus to his limitations because he does not want fans or critics to be influenced by his reduced speed and stamina, which fluctuate daily.
I try not to bring attention to that. I don’t want people to feel scared or sorry for me, or I don’t want anyone’s opinion of a match to be hampered because I simply just can’t move consistently as fast all the time… There’s still a number of issues I’m working through, and it’s really day to day.
—Kenny Omega
The Lingering Pain From Surgery: Adhesions and Physical Strain
One of the major challenges Omega faces stems from adhesions — internal scar tissues that formed after his emergency surgery. These adhesions connect to his organs and cause intense discomfort whenever he exerts himself, especially during physical activities involving core strength or twisting motions.
I have these adhesions in my stomach, quite a few. When you’re breathing heavy, when you have to use a lot of core, when you have to twist, when you have to stretch… the adhesions that are binding to my inner organs, they’re pulling apart, and it’s causing a lot of discomfort. Kinda sorta like a lot of flu-like symptoms to emerge.
—Kenny Omega
Omega also opened up about the aftereffects of a particularly grueling match at Double or Nothing, where the toll left him physically drained for extended periods.
It’s not meant to scare anybody… but I’ll be in bed until 5 p.m., 6 p.m. for almost an entire week. I just don’t have the energy, I can’t move,
he revealed.
That was the most scary part to me.
—Kenny Omega
Adjusting Expectations and Receiving Support From AEW Leadership
As he continues his recovery, Omega has shifted his approach toward listening to his body and avoiding overexertion. This new mindset has earned full backing from AEW President Tony Khan, providing reassurance during this uncertain phase of his career.
Despite the setbacks, Omega’s dedication to wrestling remains strong, along with his willingness to candidly share the realities of his health struggles with fans. His resilience illustrates the challenges athletes face when recovering from serious medical conditions while maintaining their professional passion.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Kenny Omega’s Career and Recovery
Kenny Omega’s story underscores the unpredictability of health crises for professional wrestlers and the courage it takes to navigate recovery amid physical and emotional hurdles. As he adapts to a changed physical capacity, his ongoing transparency sheds light on the human side of a sport often seen through the lens of spectacle.
Fans and followers of AEW will be watching closely to see how Omega’s journey evolves and what role he will play in the wrestling world moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kenny Omega LGBTQ?
A. Kenny has suggested and openly stated that he’s bisexual, but it’s unclear if he’s talking as himself or his character, Kenny Omega.
