AEW star and wrestling legend Dustin Rhodes has provided an update on his pro wrestling future.
Dustin Rhodes believes his return to the ring is getting closer as he continues recovering from double knee surgery. The AEW and ROH veteran has not wrestled since facing Kyle Fletcher on AEW Collision in July 2025. While Rhodes has already resumed some of his backstage coaching duties, he revealed that he is still awaiting medical clearance to compete.
Speaking on Tony Schiavone‘s What Happened When podcast, quotes courtesy of f4wonline.com, Rhodes admitted the first stages of recovery were particularly difficult but said significant progress has been made.
“It was a hard couple of months, the first two months were pretty bad,” Rhodes said. “I’m not quite cleared yet, but I think we’re very close.”
The 57-year-old added that he remains motivated to make the most of the final years of his in-ring career.
“I can’t wait to see what I can do for the next year and a half, two years before I retire.”
Dustin Rhodes Shares Plans For His Eventual Wrestling Retirement
Dustin Rhodes also discussed his eventual retirement plans, revealing that he has already spoken with AEW President Tony Khan about how he would like his final match to unfold. While he acknowledged that the decision ultimately belongs to Khan, Rhodes said he has a vision for one last appearance as “The Natural” Dustin Rhodes rather than his long-running painted persona.
“I kind of want to go out with no paint on this one and just like a throwback to ‘The Natural’ Dustin Rhodes in the early 90s,” he explained.
Rhodes joked that fans are probably more accustomed to seeing him wrestle in his trademark bodysuit these days, despite proudly noting that he is currently back down to his high school weight after working hard throughout his rehabilitation.
The wrestling veteran also praised Tony Khan for his support during his AEW tenure, describing the company president as “incredibly good” to him throughout his run with the promotion.
Now approaching four decades in professional wrestling, Rhodes hopes to reach the 40-year milestone before bringing his in-ring career to a close. Even after retirement, he is expected to remain with AEW in a backstage capacity, thanks to his long-term contract with the company.
