WWE star Zoey Stark has given a heartfelt update on her ongoing recovery from a devastating knee injury sustained during a Triple Threat Money in the Bank qualifying match on the May 19 episode of WWE Raw. The injury — involving torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus — has sidelined the 31-year-old rising talent for the foreseeable future, with a projected recovery timeline of around eight months[1][2][3].

Taking to Instagram recently, Stark candidly described the physical and emotional toll of her rehab journey so far. “It’s been both mentally and physically exhausting and frustrating,” Stark admitted. She further revealed that her knee remains stiff and isn’t bending fully as she needs it to, making progress slower than hoped: “I’m in a spot right now with my knee where it’s not wanting to bend to give me the full range of motion that I am looking for. As much as that sucks, it’s okay. I will push through this. I will find a way around it. I’ll get to where I need to get. But boy is it frustrating.”[2][3]

Sources close to Stark confirm that she underwent surgery in early June to repair the torn ligaments and meniscus. Despite the setbacks, Stark is keeping a positive outlook. She finds solace in simple joys outside the ring, including welcoming a new puppy named Mad Max and spending time with her other pets, which she credits with uplifting her spirits during this tough period[2][3].

Injury Details and Circumstances

The injury occurred when Stark attempted a missile dropkick during the triple threat match against Rhea Ripley and Kairi Sane on Raw. WWE officials and eyewitnesses noted that Stark appeared to miss her mark, landing awkwardly on her knee, which immediately hampered her movement. Shortly after, she was helped backstage, and Ripley went on to win the match[2][5].

The career-impacting injury involves damage to multiple crucial components of the knee joint:

• ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament): Essential for knee stability and pivoting movements.
• MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament): Provides medial (inside) stability to the knee.
• Meniscus: Cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the knee joint.

Such injuries typically require surgical reconstruction and extensive rehabilitation, often sidelining athletes in high-impact sports like professional wrestling for 6-9 months or longer[1][3].

Impact on Zoey Stark’s Career

Prior to her injury, Stark was building momentum in WWE’s women’s division. She had earned respect through matches on WWE Main Event, exchanging victories with notable competitors like Maxxine Dupri, and had advanced in the WWE Speed contenders tournament. Her trajectory suggested a breakout run, potentially culminating in top-tier storylines in the coming months[2].

However, the injury means an extended absence through the rest of 2025, with her potential ring return now anticipated around early 2026, just as WWE begins ramping up toward WrestleMania season[3]. WWE insiders emphasize the company’s confidence in Stark’s ability to make a full comeback, noting her determination and mental toughness during rehab.

A WWE source told Fightful, “Zoey’s recovery is slower than anyone wanted, but she’s resilient — she’s already showing the mental fortitude that makes a top WWE Superstar. Management expects her to come back stronger than before.”[2]

Stark’s Personal Outlook and Rehabilitation Progress

Despite the grueling challenges, Stark continues to engage actively in her rehab routine—walking again, using a stationary bike for low-impact conditioning, and performing other physical therapy exercises aimed at restoring mobility and strength[2][3].

Her social media messages emphasize transparency with fans and openness about her mental health, exhibiting vulnerability that has earned widespread support from WWE’s passionate community. Fans and fellow wrestlers alike have flooded her posts with messages of encouragement and hope[1][5].

Stark’s embrace of a “silver lining” philosophy serves as a critical coping tool:
“There’s always a silver lining in a dark cloud,” she remarked, pointing to small victories amid adversity, including new pet companionship and progress in mobility[2].

Looking Ahead: Return Timeline and Expectations

With an eight-month timeline for recovery, Stark’s return could align with WWE’s 2026 calendar peak events. Experts say that if her rehab continues positively, she may be ready for limited in-ring action by late winter or early spring.

Industry analysts predict that Stark will re-enter WWE’s programming with fresh momentum, potentially targeting mid-card or even main-event storylines given her in-ring skills and growing fanbase.

Summary

• Zoey Stark suffered a serious knee injury on May 19, 2025, tearing ACL, MCL, and meniscus during a Money in the Bank qualifier on WWE Raw[1][2][5].
• After surgery in June, her rehab has been “mentally and physically exhausting,” with current difficulty bending her knee fully[2][3].
• Despite frustration, Stark remains optimistic and motivated to push through her recovery obstacles[2][3].
• She finds happiness in life’s small joys, including a new puppy and family pets[2][3].
• WWE insiders express confidence in her eventual full return, aiming for early 2026[2][3].

Zoey Stark’s update underscores the harsh realities behind WWE’s high-impact performances and the resilience required to overcome injury setbacks. Fans eagerly await her triumphant return to the squared circle, inspired by her unwavering fighting spirit both inside and outside the ring.

Article compiled from reports by Sportskeeda, Fightful, PWMania, Wrestling Headlines, and social media updates from Zoey Stark.