Kota Ibushi Claims In-Ring Return ‘Almost Impossible’, Still Hopeful Of Comeback
Kota Ibushi isn’t ruling out an in-ring return, despite medical advice.
During the October 8 taping of AEW Collision, Kota Ibushi suffered a leg injury during his match with Josh Alexander that resulted in him being stretchered out of the arena. The following week, Ibushi confirmed that he had suffered a broken femur and was expected to be sidelined for up to two years.
Taking to Instagram after revealing that he would require another surgery on his leg, Ibushi confirmed that the procedure was successful and addressed the possibility of an in-ring return. He revealed that he has been advised not to return to the ring, although he remains determined to continue pursuing a comeback.
“Fortunately, the surgery was successful, but I learned a few things from it. It seems that a return to professional wrestling is almost impossible. The plate that was replaced this time will not be removed from my perspective in the future and will remain like this for life. Thanks to the treatment, I can now go about my life without any problems, but apparently there is a high chance it will break again if I do professional wrestling. When that happens, even daily life becomes difficult. In the past, I would have tried to make a comeback, but I’m confused because I don’t feel that motivation anymore. Is it due to age? Perhaps my body has come to understand that with these legs, I may never be able to return to my prime. That’s what I thought. I’m completely recovered after just two days since the surgery! Even though a comeback seems hopeless, I will definitely return to the ring. I don’t know how many years it will take, but I will never give up.”
-Kota Ibushi
Kota Ibushi is a three-time former KO-D Openweight Champion in DDT Pro-Wrestling, among numerous other accolades, and is also a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion in New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
“The Golden Star” officially joined All Elite Wrestling in November 2023, although his time with the promotion has been disrupted by health issues and a series of injuries. With Ibushi now facing another significant setback, it remains to be seen what the future holds for his in-ring career.
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As always, we’ll aim to provide any further updates on Kota Ibushi’ injury status as soon as we hear more, and we continue to wish him all the best in his recovery.
