Ric Flair Surgery: WWE Legend Asks for Prayers

Ric Flair Announces Upcoming Surgery, Cites Fragility Amid ongoing Health Battles

A WWE Hall of Famer, Ric Flair, announced Monday he will undergo surgery, prompting concern among fans given his history of significant health challenges. The wrestling icon, largely out of the public eye since Sting’s AEW retirement tour, shared the news via Instagram, requesting fans “keep him in their prayers” and acknowledging that “it’s all fragile.”

A History of Health Concerns

Though the specific nature of the upcoming procedure remains undisclosed, news of Ric Flair undergoing surgery isn’t entirely surprising. The 74-year-old has faced a series of serious medical issues in recent years, including a near-fatal battle with kidney failure in 2017 and multiple surgeries in 2019. He also reportedly suffered a heart attack following his final wrestling match in 2022.

Did you know?– Flair, whose real name is richard Fliehr, was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and adopted as an infant. His wrestling career began in 1972, marking over five decades in the spotlight.

Earlier this year,shortly after a public disagreement with broadcasting legend Jim Ross,flair revealed he was battling skin cancer for the second time in recent years. It remains unclear whether this upcoming surgery is related to that diagnosis or a separate medical concern.

Recent Appearances and Public Scrutiny

Flair’s recent appearances in the news have been a mix of positive and negative attention. He was praised earlier this year for honoring his friend and former Four Horsemen stablemate, Steve “Mongo” McMichael, on “AEW Collision.” Though, he has also faced scrutiny for past controversies, including the infamous “Plane Ride From Hell” and his recent verbal clash with Ross.

Reader question:– Given the physical toll of professional wrestling, what measures should be in place to support wrestlers’ long-term health and well-being after retirement? Share your thoughts in the comments.

The wrestling legend accompanied his Instagram announcement with photos, including a graphic image of what appeared to be his stomach bearing sutures from a previous operation. This visual underscored the physical toll his career and subsequent health battles have taken.

Flair’s announcement serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands placed on professional wrestlers and the long-term health consequences that can follow. As he prepares for another surgery, fans and colleagues alike are sending their well wishes to the “Nature Boy,” hoping for a swift and full recovery.

The Physical Toll of Wrestling: Addressing Long-Term Health

Ric Flair’s upcoming surgery serves as a stark reminder of the physical and mental toll professional wrestling takes on its athletes. The “Nature Boy’s” career, spanning over five decades, saw him endure countless bumps, bruises, and high-impact maneuvers to entertain millions. This dedication, while legendary, often leads to long-term health issues that wrestlers face long after they retire. The question of how to support these athletes is more critical than ever.

The primary focus of wrestler recovery and support should be to treat them more like athletes in other professional sports. From routine medical evaluations to psychological assistance, there is a pressing need to adapt and implement robust programs that go beyond standard care.

The Risks wrestlers Face

Professional wrestling, unlike many other sports, doesn’t always have a fixed season. Wrestlers are constantly on the go, participating in matches that can often be very hazardous. The core risks can include the following injuries:

• Head Injuries: Concussions are a continuous risk. Repeated blows to the head can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE),memory loss,and mood disorders.
• Spinal Issues: Heavy lifting and wrestling moves can cause critically important spinal damage, including herniated discs, which can lead to chronic pain and nerve damage.
• Joint Damage: Knees, shoulders, and other joints take an enormous beating, leading to arthritis and the need for joint replacement surgeries later in life.
• Internal Damage: Wrestlers can sustain internal injuries from high-impact moves taken during matches, like kidney failure, as Flair experienced.

these physical impacts, combined with the demanding schedule and the pressure to perform despite injuries, can create a perfect storm of health problems for wrestlers. The legacy of Flair,similar to the late Steve “Mongo” McMichael,underscores the importance of wrestler well-being.

Addressing the Challenges: A Path Forward

What can be done to help wrestlers? Here are several key measures that can substantially improve their health and well-being:

1. Comprehensive Medical Evaluations: Regular medical screenings,including neurological and musculoskeletal assessments,should be mandatory. Wrestlers need access to top-tier sports medicine specialists.
2. Mental Health Support: Wrestlers face immense pressure. Mental health programs and access to therapists could help with stress and anxiety.
3. Improved Training and Safety: Training should emphasize proper technique and safety protocols. This includes safer move selection and padded rings.
4. Financial Planning and Insurance: Providing wrestlers with healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and financial planning assistance is essential.This ensures financial security after their in-ring careers end.
5. Education on Long-Term Health: Wrestlers need education about the risks of long-term health issues. This empowers them to make informed decisions about their health and to know available resources.

What measures should be in place to support wrestlers’ long-term health and well-being after retirement? Wrestlers need better healthcare coverage, improved access to mental health services, and enhanced financial planning resources to navigate retirement successfully.

How can wrestlers be better protected during their careers from excessive physical trauma? Increased medical oversight, stricter safety protocols in training and matches, and a greater emphasis on wrestler education could help reduce on-the-job injuries.

The Role of Wrestling Organizations

The responsibility for implementing these measures falls on wrestling organizations,medical professionals,and the wrestlers themselves. Wrestling promotions, like WWE and AEW, are in a prime position to lead by example.By providing resources such as dedicated medical staff, mental health programs, and financial planning services, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to wrestler welfare. Furthermore, collaborations with healthcare providers and research institutions could provide more specialized care and advance the knowledge of wrestling-related injuries.

Wrestlers also need to take responsibility for their health by educating themselves about potential risks, prioritizing their physical and mental well-being, and advocating for better conditions. The example set by older wrestlers like Flair, and the lessons learned from legends such as McMichael provides a crucial basis for positive change. Additionally,independent promotions also need support and resources to provide necessary care and protection to their talent. The success of these solutions depends on a unified effort from all parties.

FAQs About Wrestler Health

What are the most common long-term health issues wrestlers face?

wrestlers often experience chronic pain due to joint and spinal injuries,neurological issues from concussions,and mental health challenges resulting from career demands.

Are there any preventative measures wrestlers can take?

Yes,preventative measures include following proper training techniques,participating in regular medical checkups,and prioritizing mental health,in order to build resilience to industry pressures.

How can fans support wrestlers’ well-being?

Fans can advocate for better wrestler care. This includes supporting organizations that promote wrestler health and well-being and raising awareness of the issues they face.