The Blade Returns to Ring After 2-Year Injury Hiatus

Buffalo, New York, marked a triumphant return for veteran wrestler The Blade on December 13, 2025, as he stepped back into the ring after nearly two years sidelined by a severe back injury. The All Elite Wrestling (AEW) performer, known for his tag team prowess, competed at the Blissmas 25 event at Buffalo Riverworks, reuniting with longtime partner The Butcher in what fans captured on social media as an emotional comeback.

The appearance capped a grueling recovery for The Blade, whose career was interrupted following a match in February 2024. His final bout before the hiatus came at Alpha-1 Wrestling's Watch The Throne 7 event, where he defeated Kody Lane. Shortly after, a chronic lower back issue escalated, leading to spinal fusion surgery on September 10, 2024. In a September 2025 interview, The Blade reflected on the ordeal, stating, "I've been wrestling 25 years. I've had a bad back for a long time." He credited AEW for supporting his rehabilitation, adding, "AEW took care of my surgery. They took care of my physical therapy. They've been taking care of me for over a year now and I'm really grateful for that."

AEW President Tony Khan personally ensured the wrestler faced no...