Rhodes revealed on social media (via X/Twitter) that both of his knees are “destroyed” beyond repair and need replacement rather than repair. He wrote, “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][3][4] Despite the gravity of his injuries, he promised fans he is determined to “push myself as hard as possible to make it back,” emphasizing his mindset of never quitting and continuing to accomplish new goals even at this stage of his career.[4]

Rhodes suffered the injuries during his intense TNT Championship match against Kyle Fletcher on the July 31 episode of AEW Collision, a bout highly praised and rated five stars by wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer for its brutality and storytelling.[2] The injury has forced him off AEW television and sidelined until 2026 for surgery and recovery. He was written off AEW TV after losing the TNT Championship and currently holds the ROH World Tag Team Championship with Sammy Guevara, as well as the ROH Six-Man Tag Team Championship with The Von Erichs. The future of these titles remains uncertain amid his upcoming extended absence.[1][2]

Sources close to Rhodes indicate that while the surgery and rehab will be challenging, his passion for wrestling remains undiminished. A WWE insider commented, “Dustin’s commitment to the sport and his resilience even with this severe injury proves why he’s still considered one of the greatest. He’s not ready to retire; he wants to make one more run and leave a lasting legacy.”[3]

AEW has publicly shown support for Rhodes during this difficult time. The promotion tweeted, “We couldn’t be more proud of you, @DustinRhodes. Get well soon!” highlighting how valued he is both as a performer and a veteran presence backstage.[3]

Rhodes’ injury underscores the physical toll of professional wrestling, especially for an athlete competing at a high level into his mid-50s. Yet, Rhodes defies any notion that age is a barrier to excellence. He said in interviews and on podcasts that hearing from fans who admire his toughness inspires him: “At 56, I’m still one of the greatest wrestlers in the world. Age is a number, not a limitation.”[4]

Looking ahead, Rhodes expressed excitement about AEW’s future and his role in it post-recovery: “I’m truly excited for whatever comes next in AEW. Love it here. Five-star matches at 56 prove that you can never let anybody tell you what you can’t do. This is just a chapter—not the end.”[4]

In addition to his in-ring work, Rhodes has a respected reputation as a mentor and leader backstage, roles that AEW values highly and will likely see him continue even during recovery. His double knee replacement surgery represents a major moment, but insiders believe Dustin’s return is likely given his drive and the foundation he has laid.

In summary, Dustin Rhodes’ upcoming double knee replacement surgery marks a serious injury setback, with the 56-year-old facing months away from action. However, Rhodes remains defiant about retirement, viewing this as a hurdle rather than a full stop. Supported by AEW and his fans, Rhodes aims to come back stronger, continuing to carve out his legacy as one of wrestling’s toughest and most beloved legends.

Key points:

• Dustin Rhodes confirmed double knee replacement surgery for August 21, due to irreparable knee damage[1][4].
• Injuries occurred during his brutal AEW TNT title match loss to Kyle Fletcher on July 31, rated 5-stars by Dave Meltzer[2].
• Rhodes currently holds ROH tag titles but future of those belts uncertain during his recovery[1][2].
• Sources close to Rhodes and AEW insiders highlight his determination to recover and return, not retire[3].
• AEW publicly supported Rhodes, praising his resilience and legacy[3].
• Rhodes embraces the challenge at age 56, calling himself “still one of the greatest wrestlers in the world”[4].
• Surgery sidelines Rhodes until 2026 but he remains optimistic about a comeback and future roles[1][4].

According to multiple wrestling news outlets and social media statements, Dustin Rhodes’ journey through this serious injury will be closely watched by fans and the professional wrestling community alike, as one of the industry’s enduring figures aims to prove age and adversity are not the end of the road.