WWE Intercontinental Champion “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio has addressed the controversy surrounding his recent rib injury, confirming it was 100% legitimate, despite widespread fan speculation that he was exaggerating or faking the injury as part of a storyline. In a revealing interview on The TWC Show podcast, Mysterio detailed the painful nature of his injury and shared insights into some of the other serious physical setbacks he’s endured throughout his career, including a punctured lung early in his heel run.

The Truth Behind the Rib Injury

Dominik’s recent injury forced him to pull out of a highly anticipated Intercontinental Championship match against AJ Styles at WWE’s Night of Champions event. Fans were quick to speculate that his absence was a scripted part of the storyline rather than a real injury. However, speaking candidly on The TWC Show, Mysterio shared, “I dislocated my two lower ribs, and they were digging into my cartilage. So that was why I was actually, like, hurt. Everyone thought I was faking it, but I was actually hurt.”[2]

This revelation confirms earlier reports from the Club 520 podcast, where Mysterio described the injury’s severity and the intense pain caused by the ribs pressing into his cartilage, making it medically impossible to compete at the time.[1] The legitimate nature of his injury was also corroborated by WWE officials when they ruled him not medically cleared to wrestle on the Night of Champions card.

Fortunately, after careful recovery and medical clearance, Dominik returned to action and finally clashed with AJ Styles live at SummerSlam 2025, delivering on one of the year’s most eagerly awaited Intercontinental Title matches.[1]

A History of Tough Injuries

Mysterio also opened up about a far graver injury that occurred at the very beginning of his heel run with The Judgment Day during his first-ever match as a villain against WWE Hall of Famer Edge. In that brutal contest, Dominik executed his signature Frog Splash but suffered a cracked rib that punctured a lung — a pneumothorax severe enough to require immediate hospital treatment.[2][3]

He explained the ordeal vividly: “I did a Frog Splash, and I cracked my rib and it punctured a lung. And then I finished the match, and then I just remember not being able to catch my breath.” Despite the pain and danger, Mysterio pushed through to complete the match before seeking emergency care.[2]

This injury underlines the extreme physical risks WWE Superstars take whenever they step inside the ring, especially when performing high-risk maneuvers that define their wrestling style.

Grinding Through Training and Setbacks

Dominik’s resilience isn’t limited to in-ring battles. Reflecting on the start of his wrestling journey, he recounted the grueling training under legends such as his father Rey Mysterio, godfather Konnan, Jay Lethal, and Lance Storm. His early days involved hours of Lucha Libre rolling drills non-stop, aiming to build the stamina and skill needed to succeed in the squared circle.[3]

These experiences forged his reputation not just as a talented performer but as one with an iron will, able to overcome setbacks including his recent rib injury and the punctured lung. WWE insiders confirm that Mysterio’s work ethic and toughness are major reasons why WWE remains committed to pushing him as a top star and Intercontinental Champion.[1][2]

Looking Ahead: Dominik’s Commitment and Future Matches

With his rib injury now behind him, Dominik has thrown himself back into WWE storylines, especially his rivalry with AJ Styles, which culminated in their SummerSlam encounter. According to sources close to WWE and Mysterio himself, he is preparing to defend his title against the best challengers on the roster, fully healthy and competitive.[1][4]

In more lighthearted moments, Dominik even revealed on another recent interview that he would humorously give up chicken tenders forever if it meant a fellow WWE star, Liv Morgan, could return earlier from injury.[4] This shows his camaraderie backstage and dedication to the WWE locker room as a whole.

Insider Perspectives

A WWE insider told Fightful, “Dominik’s injury was a delicate situation. Fans always speculate, but those close to the locker room knew it was real. The rib injury was painful, and he took the proper time to recover—we’re seeing the results with his performances now.” This insider also praised Mysterio’s attitude during rehab and his eagerness to get back in the ring for SummerSlam.[1][4]

Final Thoughts

Dominik Mysterio’s honesty about the pain behind his recent rib injury and his storied resilience following a punctured lung helps dispel rumors and fan speculation. His willingness to detail these injuries publicly brings new appreciation for the physical toll of professional wrestling, especially for performers who engage in high-risk and high-impact styles.

As WWE moves forward with fresh storylines featuring “Dirty Dom,” fans can expect Mysterio to continue defending the Intercontinental Championship with grit and determination. His battles, both inside and outside the ring, highlight why he remains one of WWE’s most compelling young stars.

If you wish to reference quotes from this article, please credit “The TWC Show” podcast with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for transcription. Sources include interviews on Club 520 Podcast, Fightful, and WWE.com news reports.