Dustin Rhodes Out Until at Least 2026 After Injury Sideline

AEW veteran Dustin Rhodes is facing a long road to recovery after suffering a serious injury during his TNT Championship loss to Kyle Fletcher in a Chicago Street Fight on AEW Collision.

According to Fightful Select, Rhodes is set to undergo double knee surgery and is not expected to return until 2026 at the earliest. The injury, which Rhodes confirmed is not part of a storyline, will keep him out of action for an extended period.

The 56-year-old star had already told fans that he was dealing with intense pain and would need “a very invasive major surgery” following the brutal match. Now, with surgery confirmed and the recovery timeline stretching well into next year, questions remain about the future of the championships he currently holds in ROH.

This could be one of the most significant injuries of Rhodes’ career, and with such a lengthy absence ahead, the wrestling world will be watching closely to see if he can make another comeback.

Do you think Dustin Rhodes will be able to return to the ring after such a long layoff, or could this mark the end of his in-ring career? Share your thoughts in the comments.