Veteran professional wrestler Ric Flair, 77, was transported to a Tampa, Florida hospital on Sunday after he fell outside a bar and injured his face. According to Tampa Fire Rescue, an adult male was taken to a local medical facility, though the department could not confirm the individual’s identity because of HIPAA restrictions.
Details of the incident
Flair was reportedly at the bar when he stepped outside and lost his footing, cutting his head and eye, which began bleeding. Emergency responders arrived quickly and loaded him into an ambulance for transport.
Health concerns preceding the fall
Hours earlier, Flair announced on X that he would miss a scheduled appearance in Seattle because doctors have limited his travel to three to four hours due to a blood clot in his leg. He warned fans that blood clots are “extremely serious and can be life‑threatening,” citing recent high‑profile cases such as NFL quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Flair said he is slated for surgery on the affected vein, which his doctors expect will clear him for longer travel after recovery. He expressed gratitude to supporters, apologizing for any disappointment and promising to return to health soon.
Flair’s career and recent activity
Flair, a former eight‑time World Championship Wrestling heavyweight champion, nine‑time National Wrestling Alliance heavyweight champion, and two‑time WWE champion, was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2008 (individual) and again in 2012 as part of the Four Horsemen.
He made a brief All Elite Wrestling debut in 2023 and appeared in Sting’s final professional match at AEW Revolution. His last widely recognized match took place in 2022, a tag‑team bout with his then‑son‑in‑law Andrade against Jeff Jarrett and Jay Lethal, during which he reportedly passed out twice.
Community response
Fans and fellow wrestlers have taken to social media to wish Flair a swift recovery, emphasizing his lasting impact on the sport and his resilience despite ongoing health challenges.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
