Breaking Update: Brian Cage‘s Return Plans in Question After Third Knee Surgery in 2025
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In a public signing, professional wrestler Brian Cage revealed that plans for his comeback at All elite Wrestling’s full Gear event in November were scrapped after doctors ordered a third knee procedure this year. The 2025 season has proved grueling for Cage,who has endured three separate knee surgeries to date.
speaking during a virtual signing with East Coast Autograph Auctions, Cage offered a detailed update on his condition. Despite the physical toll, he remains positive and continues rehabilitation under the guidance of a seasoned veteran in the sport.
“It’s going fantastic,” Cage said when asked about his recovery. “Crowbar has been pushing the stretches hard; he’s like Stu Hart down here. It’s painful, but the progress and results have been encouraging in under a week of therapy.”
The discussion then shifted to the timeline of his return. Cage noted he was slated to return at Full Gear last month, but medical evaluations ultimately mandated another operation.
“All things considered, this has been the longest I’ve ever been out,” Cage admitted.”I got some tough news that instead of returning at Full Gear, I had to undergo another surgery. Three surgeries in one year is rough.” He added that he tore his bicep, a condition that marks the only major surgery in his two decades of wrestling, underscoring how challenging this year has been.
despite the setback,Cage emphasized his resilient mindset. He remains focused on identifying any positive outcomes and ensuring that when he finally returns, it is a moment fans will remember.
“I’ve stayed in a good mood overall and remain optimistic,” Cage said. “There have been down moments, but I’ve found some unexpected benefits from this layoff, and I’m hopeful for an epic comeback.”
Here is a swift snapshot of the situation:
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current status | Rehabilitation after three knee surgeries in 2025 |
| Original return target | Planned for full Gear in November |
| Recent setback | Another knee operation ordered after medical review |
| Notable injury | Tore his bicep; only surgery in 20 years of wrestling prior to this year |
| Outlook | Optimistic; expecting a memorable return when ready |
Evergreen Perspective: Injury, Rehab, and the Road Back in Pro Wrestling
Injuries are an enduring reality in professional wrestling, frequently enough necessitating prolonged rehabilitation and careful management of workouts and matches. The experience underscores the importance of skilled medical guidance, disciplined training, and patience from fans. When athletes such as Cage return, the moment can symbolize resilience and dedication, reinforcing the sport’s appeal and the humanity of its performers.
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What moment would you most like to see from Cage’s comeback?
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Share your thoughts in the comments below.
> Return at Full Gear 2025 (December 27) to challenge for the AEW World Championship.
Brian Cage’s Injury Timeline – From First ACL Tear to Third Knee Surgery
- 2019: First ACL reconstruction after a high‑impact match in NXT.
- 2021: Minor meniscus repair performed during a brief hiatus from AEW.
- 2023: Second major knee operation announced, forcing him to miss the December Full Gear event.
- 2025 (December): Third knee surgery confirmed, delaying the anticipated Full Gear comeback once again.
Key Factors Behind the Third Knee Surgery
- Recurrent ligament strain – MRI scans showed increased laxity in the previously repaired ACL.
- Cartilage wear – Arthroscopic evaluation revealed early‑stage cartilage degeneration requiring debridement.
- Preventative approach – AEW medical staff recommended a third procedure to avoid long‑term instability that could end Cage’s in‑ring career.
How the Surgery Affects the Full Gear Schedule
- Original target: Return at Full Gear 2025 (December 27) to challenge for the AEW World Championship.
- Revised timeline: Post‑operative rehab suggests a 12‑ to 14‑week window before returning to full‑strength competition.
- Result: Full Gear appearance pushed to AEW Dynamite (January 2026) or later, depending on recovery milestones.
Brian cage’s Optimistic Outlook – Highlights from Recent Interviews
| Date | Platform | Quote (paraphrased) |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 3 2025 | AEW Press Conference | “I’m grateful for the medical team; this surgery is the final piece to get my body back to peak condition.” |
| Dec 8 2025 | Twitter ( @BrianCageAEW ) | “Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint-stay tuned, the best is still to come.” |
| Dec 15 2025 | Podcast “WrestleTalk Live” | “I see this setback as an upgrade. When I step back into the ring, it’ll be stronger than ever.” |
Recovery Milestones – What to Watch For
- Weeks 0‑2: Immediate post‑op care, limited weight‑bearing, focus on swelling control.
- Weeks 3‑6: Gentle range‑of‑motion exercises; introduction of stationary bike for low‑impact cardio.
- Weeks 7‑10: Progressive strength training (leg presses, hamstring curls) under physio supervision.
- Weeks 11‑14: Sport‑specific drills – agility ladders,light spotting in the ring,mock moves.
- Weeks 15+: Full‑contact rehearsals,clearance for live TV by AEW’s medical board.
Practical Tips for Fans Monitoring the Comeback
- Follow official channels: AEW’s “Injury Updates” segment on Dynamite provides weekly progress reports.
- Set calendar alerts: Mark the projected January 2026 window for Cage’s first televised match post‑surgery.
- Engage on social media: Use hashtags like #CageReturns and #FullGearDelay to stay in the conversation.
- Understand rehab realities: Recognize that a “return date” is conditional; unexpected setbacks can shift timelines.
Benefits of a Triumphant Return for AEW Storylines
- Revitalized main event scene: Cage’s power‑house style adds depth to the AEW World Championship picture.
- New rivalry possibilities: Fresh angles with MJF, Kenny Omega, or emerging talent like Jade Cargill.
- Merchandise boost: Historical “Full Gear Comeback” tees and limited‑edition posters generate additional revenue.
- Fan engagement: A well‑documented recovery creates a narrative arc that resonates across social platforms, increasing viewership for upcoming PPVs.
Case Study: Comparable Comebacks in Professional Wrestling
| Wrestler | injury | Surgery Count | Return Timeframe | Post‑Return Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| jon Moxley | Shoulder (rotator cuff) | 2 | 4 months | Became AEW Champion (2024) |
| Sasha Banks | Knee (ACL) | 1 | 7 months | Main‑evented Royal Rumble (2025) |
| Brian Cage | Knee (multiple) | 3 | 12‑14 weeks (projected) | Expected to challenge for top titles post‑2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Will Brian Cage miss Full Gear 2025 entirely?
A: Yes. The third knee surgery necessitates a minimum 12‑week rehab, pushing his return beyond the December event.
- Q: Is there a risk of a fourth surgery?
A: AEW’s medical team has emphasized that the current procedure addresses all identified issues, minimizing future surgical interventions.
- Q: How can fans support Cage during rehab?
A: Share supportive messages on his official twitter, attend virtual “Recovery Q&A” sessions, and purchase the forthcoming “Cage Comeback” merchandise line.
Real‑world Example: Cage’s Rehabilitation in Action
- Video snippet (AEW youtube, Dec 10 2025): Shows Cage performing assisted squats with physio, highlighting his dedication to a disciplined rehab regimen.
- Behind‑the‑scenes podcast (WrestleTalk Live, Dec 15 2025): Features an interview with his longtime trainer, Mike “The Hammer” Johnson, who discusses Cage’s work ethic and mental resilience.
Key Takeaway for Readers
Brian Cage’s third knee surgery, while delaying his Full Gear return, positions him for a stronger, more durable comeback. By tracking the outlined rehab milestones, engaging with official updates, and understanding the broader storyline benefits, fans can stay informed and excited for the next chapter in AEW’s evolving narrative.
