AEW wrestler Kota Ibushi has provided a worrying health update regarding his future as a professional wrestler.
Back in January, Ibushi competed against Naomichi Marufuji for Pro Wrestling NOAH. Unfortunately, Kota Ibushi suffered injuries to both his ankles and required surgery. Returning in July, Ibushi has competed in a handful of matches since, most recently for the Japanese promotion Marvelous on December 1st.
Having suffered multiple injuries throughout his career, including an arm injury that forced his match against Kazuchika Okada to be brought to a premature end at the 2021 NJPW G1 Climax final, fans have expressed concern over how much longer the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion can wrestle and if it might be time to call time on his career to avoid further damage.
Speaking to Tokyo Sports, 42-year-old Ibushi admitted that his legs are “at their limit”, adding that his career could suddenly end at any point:
“My legs are at their limit and it could end at any time. I wanted to keep going before I can’t do it anymore, so I decided to compete today. I’m really at the limit, but I want to contribute to the world of professional wrestling before I end my career, so I’m currently appearing in various places.”
When Did Kota Ibushi Last Wrestle In AEW?
While Ibushi is signed to All Elite Wrestling, the Japanese star has also been regularly competing on the independent scene in the past year. Ibushi’s last AEW match saw him team with Kenny Omega, Chris Jericho and Paul Wight to take on the Don Callis family in the Like A Dragon sponsored street fight.
According to recent reports, Ibushi is expected to make his return to AEW around the same time as Kenny Omega, who is expected back in the promotion imminently following the recent announcement that he would be competing in Japan on January 5th at Wrestle Dynasty.