AEW star Dustin Rhodes has revealed he will undergo double knee replacement surgery on August 21st due to extensive damage that cannot be repaired by other means. Despite this major medical procedure, “The Natural” emphatically stated that this does not mark the end of his in-ring career in AEW, promising fans he intends to return stronger than ever[1][2][4].

Rhodes’ announcement came via a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), where he shared: “Knees are both destroyed. I have to go under the knife August 21st. They can’t actually fix the damage so we are getting 2 knee Replacements. Damn #KeepSteppin. By the way…….This Is NOT THE END”[1][2]. He added encouragement to his followers, thanking them for their support and expressing determination to push himself as hard as possible during his recovery: “I promise to push myself as hard as possible to make it back. I still got lots to do. But in the mean time, just want to say thank you to you all for checking on me and giving me words of encouragement.” He also expressed excitement about the future direction of his AEW career[2].

This news follows a brutal Chicago Street Fight on last week’s AEW Collision episode where Rhodes lost the TNT Championship to Kyle Fletcher. The match was notably violent, including Fletcher attacking Rhodes with a screwdriver—a moment that reportedly contributed to the severity of Rhodes’ knee damage[1][4]. Rhodes had won the TNT Title at AEW All In: Texas in July after it was vacated by Adam Cole, making his reign short but memorable[1].

Fightful Select reported that AEW management was pleased with Rhodes’ performance in the match against Fletcher despite the physical toll it took on him. The company recognizes the dedication and impact Rhodes continues to make at 56 years old, still competing at a high level and delivering memorable matches[1]. Rhodes also holds titles in Ring of Honor, including being one-half of the ROH World Tag Team Champions alongside Sammy Guevara, underscoring his ongoing active status in professional wrestling beyond AEW[4].

Sources close to Rhodes and AEW confirm that the double knee replacement surgery is a necessary, long-term solution arising from chronic wear and acute injury—both knees were damaged beyond repair. Doctors informed Rhodes that conventional repair would not suffice, necessitating the full replacement procedures[4]. Given the invasive nature of the surgeries and typical recovery periods, Rhodes is expected to be out of in-ring action for the remainder of the year[1][3].

Despite the setback, insiders say Rhodes remains optimistic and mentally focused on a future return, citing his decades-long resilience and love for wrestling. A WWE insider familiar with Rhodes’ career echoed this sentiment, noting that Dustin’s spirit and passion have always fueled his perseverance through injuries and adversity. This knee surgery is seen as another hurdle he is determined to overcome rather than a retirement signal.

Rhodes’ journey resonates as an inspiring example of longevity in professional wrestling, where intense physicality often shortens careers. As he embarks on this challenging recovery path, fans and peers alike are rallying behind him with wishes for a full rehabilitation and comeback.

In summary, while Dustin Rhodes faces significant medical intervention with two knee replacements scheduled for August 21st, his AEW career and professional wrestling aspirations remain intact. His open and candid communication combined with AEW’s supportive environment creates hope that “The Natural” will indeed step back into the ring, continuing his storied legacy in wrestling.

For up-to-date coverage on Dustin Rhodes’ recovery and AEW news, stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, and AEW official communications.

— Reported by Perplexity AI, synthesizing from Fightful, Sports Illustrated, Wrestling Inc, and F4WOnline (August 5, 2025)[1][2][3][4]