AEW and ROH fans were recently shaken by news from Mark Sterling, who revealed a serious injury on ROH television. Sterling, a prominent figure in both AEW and Ring of Honor (ROH), announced he suffered a torn bicep, requiring surgery scheduled for this Thursday. While AEW and ROH insiders remain hopeful for Sterling’s relatively speedy recovery and return to the ring, the injury is confirmed legitimate and not a storyline angle, according to reports from Fightful Select and other credible wrestling news outlets[1][2][3].
Sterling’s announcement came during an episode of ROH TV airing on HonorClub, where he delivered the news candidly, explaining that while surgery marks the next step, his ability to compete in-ring will be temporarily sidelined[3]. Industry sources close to the matter say both AEW and ROH management are closely monitoring his recovery, aiming for a return to television within weeks if all goes well[1][2]. The injury’s significance is underscored by the demanding nature of Sterling’s dual role as a wrestler and manager within the promotions.
In other wrestling news that’s stirring excitement amongst fans, Ronda Rousey — herself a high-profile WWE star and former UFC champion — has recently broken her usual reticence by publicly praising an AEW talent. Known for her candid and often critical commentary, Rousey’s recent spotlight on one of AEW’s top wrestlers marks a notable departure from her standard media interactions. According to sources close to the WWE and AEW backstage scene, Rousey expressed respect for the wrestler’s in-ring skill, work ethic, and character development, an uncommon show of admiration between the competing companies.
While WWE and AEW have maintained a competitive, sometimes tense relationship, this rare moment of cross-promotional praise from Rousey is fueling fan conversations across social media and wrestling forums. Industry insiders report that Rousey’s comments reflect her acknowledgment of the evolving talent landscape, noting that AEW’s roster houses some exceptionally gifted performers who are pushing boundaries in professional wrestling today.
Backstage reports also highlight how this appreciation may influence future interactions or even potential talent discussions, an intriguing prospect given the ongoing wrestling wars between WWE and AEW. For wrestling journalists and fans alike, Rousey’s praise adds a fascinating dimension to WWE-AEW dynamics that usually revolve around rivalry rather than mutual respect.
Returning to Mark Sterling, fans will understandably remain concerned about his health but hopeful given the positive context surrounding his impending surgery. ROH and AEW have historically been supportive toward their wrestlers’ recovery and long-term career management, with many stars coming back stronger following similar injuries.
Sterling’s upcoming surgery and rehabilitation process will be closely followed by wrestling media and audiences eager to see his return. Meanwhile, his open communication about the injury demonstrates professionalism and transparency appreciated by fans and peers alike.
In summary, the AEW/ROH landscape is marked by both setbacks and uplifting moments: Mark Sterling’s injury and surgery bring a pause but also hope for recovery, while Ronda Rousey’s rare compliment toward an AEW star signals intriguing shifts in wrestling relationships. Wrestling fans should stay tuned for further updates from these ongoing stories as the wrestling world evolves dynamically in 2025.
Sources: ROH TV, Fightful Select, eWrestlingNews.com, Wrestling Headlines, 411MANIA, Insider Wrestling Podcasts.