WWE Legend Fred Ottman Says Exploded Gallbladder Nearly Killed Him After 30 Days in Hospital

WWE legend Fred Ottman, best known to fans as Typhoon, Tugboat, and The Shockmaster, has revealed he’s been fighting for his life behind the scenes.

Ottman took to Instagram on Sunday to explain why he’s been off the radar, sharing that he has spent the last 30 days hospitalized in St. Petersburg, Florida after a severe medical emergency that doctors say nearly cost him his life. According to Ottman, his gallbladder unexpectedly ruptured inside his body, releasing toxins that triggered a major infection and began shutting down his organs.

“I just wanted to let everybody know I didn’t fall off the planet. I’ve been in the hospital for about thirty days… unfortunately, my gallbladder exploded inside of me and it released a bunch of poison into my body.”

The 69-year-old said the situation became so serious that doctors warned his wife he might not survive if treatment had been delayed any longer. Ottman explained that the infection was so severe it began affecting his kidneys, pushing him dangerously close to needing dialysis.

“If I would have waited one more day, the doctor told my wife that I probably wouldn’t be here with you and be able to talk to you guys.”

“I was almost to the point where I was going to have to go on dialysis because it really damaged my kidneys… but so far, so good.”

The WWE veteran also shared the physical toll the ordeal has taken on him, revealing he lost significant muscle mass and has had to relearn how to walk. Despite not being fully out of the woods, Ottman said doctors plan to discharge him soon, allowing him to continue his recovery at home. He also noted another surgery is scheduled later this month to remove drainage bags related to the infection.

“I’ve lost a lot of muscle mass… it’s been a brutal fight. I’ve been learning how to walk again.”

“Monday afternoon they’re going to let me out of here… go home and start training there and get bigger, stronger, and work on making my comeback.”

Throughout the video, Ottman repeatedly credited his wife, family, friends, and fellow wrestlers for helping him push through the ordeal. After surviving what he openly acknowledged was a near-death experience, Ottman made it clear he’s focused on recovery and moving forward.

“Thank God I got a good wife, I got great friends. My wrestling buddies are just amazing.”

“I’m not finished yet… God is good.”

For now, the good news is Fred Ottman is alive, recovering, and finally heading home after a month-long nightmare that almost ended far worse. After everything he’s been through, just seeing The Shockmaster still standing is a win in itself. What matters most now is his health — but fans will definitely be watching to see how strong his comeback really is.

What do you think about Fred Ottman’s recovery journey, and which version of him do you remember most from his wrestling career? Drop your thoughts and well wishes in the comments.

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