Juice Robinson’s hopes of closing out 2024 with a strong showing in AEW’s Continental Classic Gold League were dashed when the charismatic “Rock Hard” star suffered a broken fibula in his opening round match against Will Ospreay. The injury forces Robinson out of the tournament, paving the way for luchador Komander to step in as his replacement.

According to Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer, Robinson’s injury occurred just three minutes into the match while attempting to block an Ospreay sunset flip. Though a still photograph reportedly reveals his left foot bending unnaturally, Robinson showed no immediate reaction and soldiered on. His performance included a high-risk top-rope move, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite unknowingly competing with a serious injury. The only noticeable hiccup came when his leg buckled during an Ospreay hurricanrana attempt.

AEW has yet to provide an official timeline for Robinson’s recovery, leaving fans to wonder how long the fan-favorite star will be sidelined. In the meantime, the company has made an intriguing choice by replacing Robinson in the Gold League with Komander, a high-flying luchador and former AAA World Cruiserweight Champion.

Komander’s journey in the Continental Classic kicks off on Rampage this Friday, where he’ll face Ricochet in what promises to be an exhilarating clash of styles. The high-stakes action continues just one day later on Collision, with Komander taking on Darby Allin.

While Robinson’s exit is undoubtedly a blow to the tournament, Komander’s inclusion brings a fresh dynamic to the competition, offering fans the kind of thrilling, high-octane action that has defined AEW’s in-ring style. Fans will now watch closely to see if Komander can capitalize on this unexpected opportunity.

AEW star Juice Robinson may be facing a significant setback after sustaining an injury during his Continental Classic match against Will Ospreay at last week’s AEW Collision tapings. The injury, which appears to affect his left foot or ankle, was serious enough that Robinson was spotted using crutches and wearing a wrap at WrestleCade shortly afterward.

Latest on Robinson’s Condition

On a recent episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer provided updates on Robinson’s medical status. According to Meltzer, the Bullet Club Gold member is concerned that he may have suffered a broken foot. Robinson has already undergone X-rays, but the results had not been made public as of earlier this week.

If the worst-case scenario is confirmed, Robinson’s participation in AEW’s prestigious Continental Classic tournament could be in jeopardy. Robinson is currently competing in the Gold League of the tournament, where each match carries significant weight in determining the eventual champion.

Potential Outcomes for AEW’s Tournament

Should Robinson be unable to continue, AEW faces a challenging decision. Meltzer speculated on possible scenarios, including Robinson being forced to forfeit his remaining matches or AEW introducing a replacement to fill his spot. Both options would undoubtedly shake up the tournament landscape, which is a cornerstone of AEW programming in the coming weeks.

The stakes are particularly high for Robinson, as the Continental Classic offers competitors the opportunity to elevate their status within the company while vying for a title opportunity.

What’s Next?

Fans and officials alike are eagerly awaiting further updates on Robinson’s condition. If the injury proves to be less severe than feared, Robinson may still compete with limited physicality. However, AEW’s emphasis on wrestler safety means they are unlikely to take unnecessary risks.

For now, the wrestling world sends its best wishes to Juice Robinson as he navigates this difficult time. Whether he continues in the Continental Classic or takes time off to heal, his in-ring charisma and relentless fighting style will be missed by fans around the globe.

Stay tuned as more details about Robinson’s injury and AEW’s plans for the tournament emerge in the coming days.

Bullet Club Gold was attacked by MJF on the AEW Full Gear 2023 go-home episode of Rampage, and when the camera cut backstage, Juice Robinson was laid out after MJF apparently broke a flat-screen TV over his head.

Fightful is reporting that Robinson was legitimately injured sometime before that and the angle was carried out to write him off television.

Robinson suffered a back injury at some point and will require surgery to repair the issue. It’s unknown when the injury occurred.

Robinson last wrestled on the November 1st episode of AEW Dynamite. He is believed to be out for the remainder of the year, but not much longer than that.

Source: eWn