Kota Ibushi is facing one of the toughest challenges of his career after revealing that doctors have given him a discouraging outlook regarding a potential return to professional wrestling.
The former AEW star recently underwent a second surgery following the broken femur he suffered during a match with Josh Alexander on AEW Collision. According to Ibushi, medical professionals have warned that stepping back into the ring could carry significant long-term risks.
Doctors reportedly told Ibushi that while he should be able to recover enough to live a normal daily life, the demands of professional wrestling present a high likelihood of re-injuring the leg. He noted that the metal plate inserted during surgery is expected to remain in place permanently, and another break could have serious consequences for his mobility.
The update marks another setback in what has been a difficult stretch for Ibushi. Prior to the leg injury, he spent an extended period on the sidelines dealing with a major shoulder issue that kept him out of action for nearly two years.
Speaking about his current condition, Ibushi acknowledged that the road back appears extremely difficult. He admitted that a return to the ring feels close to impossible and said he no longer feels physically at the same level he once did.
Despite the grim prognosis, Ibushi has not completely closed the door on wrestling again. He stated that he has no intention of giving up on the possibility of a comeback and remains determined to keep working toward a return, even if the odds are stacked against him.
If he is eventually cleared to compete again, Ibushi indicated that he would approach his career differently and avoid pushing his body to the same extremes that defined much of his in-ring style over the years.
For now, however, Ibushi’s focus remains on recovery as he continues rehabilitating from one of the most serious injuries of his career.
