Dustin Rhodes Updates Knee Recovery, Targets 2026 Return

Dustin Rhodes, the 56-year-old All Elite Wrestling star known as The Natural, provided an update on his recovery from double knee replacement surgery via social media this week, highlighting ongoing challenges while expressing optimism for a return to the ring in early 2026.

Rhodes underwent the procedure in August, shortly after losing the AEW TNT Championship to Kyle Fletcher in a Chicago Street Fight on July 31. Nearly three months post-surgery, he described persistent pain, particularly in the mornings, and difficulties with basic movements. "I am still in a considerable amount of pain especially in mornings," Rhodes wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on November 13. "I am 56 yrs old and it is taking a lot longer for recovery guys. The hardest thing for me at this moment, is getting up from a chair, and stepping down a step with right especially."

Despite the setbacks, Rhodes emphasized his progress, crediting his strong work ethic and athletic background. He noted that his legs, which he described as naturally thin, remain a focus for rebuilding strength once he gains more mobility. "I am on track for my age and then some," he added, projecting a comeback "late Feb, early March...