AEW Star Requires Major Surgery After Medical Hardware Failure

Kota Ibushi Undergoing Another Major Leg Surgery Following Femur Recovery Setback

AEW star Kota Ibushi’s path back to professional wrestling has encountered another severe complication. Following months of rehabilitation to determine if his femur would heal sufficiently for a ring return, the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion revealed that he must undergo another operation after learning that the surgical plate inserted into his leg was insufficient.

Taking to Instagram on August 29, “The Golden Star” confirmed that his next procedure is officially scheduled for September 17.

Faulty Surgical Hardware Complicates Healing

According to Ibushi, the necessity for a follow-up operation stems from the hardware utilized during his initial surgery in the United States. Medical professionals recently informed him that the original plate was not strong enough to support proper bone fusion.

Ibushi shared the details of his diagnosis and upcoming procedure:

“It’s decided‼️ Although I guess you could also say, ‘What was all that about?’… I want this to be the last major surgery of my life.”
“Apparently, the plate they put in when I had surgery in America is too weak, which is why it hasn’t healed (and they’re only figuring this out now⁉️). So, surgery has been scheduled for September 17 to replace it with a stronger, thicker plate.”

Uncertainty Surrounding In-Ring Career

The upcoming operation introduces significant doubt regarding Ibushi’s long-term future in combat sports. Doctors have reportedly advised him against competing in contact sports moving forward, though the 44-year-old veteran has not completely ruled out a potential comeback.

Addressing his future and his current reliance on pain management, Ibushi expressed a desire to focus on long-term health:

“Apparently, I basically won’t be able to do contact sports, but maybe I’ll be able to make a comeback? Well, either way, I’m okay with it 🙆‍♂️”
“I just hope the day comes when I don’t have to take strong painkillers anymore 😊”
“Heal!! It will heal! I won’t run away, I won’t lose, I won’t give up!! I’m looking forward to it 😃 I’m completely broken to pieces!”

Earlier industry reports highlighted ongoing concerns regarding Ibushi’s lateral movement, balance, and agility following his initial leg injury. With another major procedure scheduled for September 17 to replace the hardware, any potential timeline for an in-ring return remains indefinitely paused as he prioritizes his physical recovery.