Kota Ibushi provides an update following his most recent surgery on a recent leg injury, and on if he will return to the ring.
Ibushi has been out of action since November of last year when he suffered a fractured leg, and has had a range of complications from the injury as a result. Last week, he would undergo another surgery on the leg, and has now provided an update following the procedure.
While speaking in a new video posted to X, Kota Ibushi spoke about the surgery, noting that ‘a return to professional wrestling is almost impossible.’
“Fortunately, the surgery was successful, but I learned a few things from it. It seems that a return to professional wrestling is almost impossible. The plate that was replaced this time will not be removed from my perspective in the future, and will remain like this for life. Thanks to the treatment, I can now go about my life without any problems, but apparently there is a high chance it will break again if I do professional wrestling. When that happens, even daily life becomes difficult. In the past, I would have tried to make a comeback, but I’m confused because I don’t feel that motivation anymore. Is it due to age? Perhaps my body has come to understand that with these legs, I may never be able to return to my prime. That’s what I thought, I’m completely recovered after just two days since the surgery! Even though a comeback seems hopeless, I will definitely return to the ring. I don’t know how many years it will take, but I will never give up. However, my leg is in pretty bad shape, so I’m going to stop pushing as hard as I used to.”
Elsewhere in another update, Ibushi spoke about living on medication usually prescribed to cancer paitents. You can read more about that [below].
Kota Ibushi gives an update after surgery.
Earlier this week, Kota Ibushi underwent a second surgery on his femur, which has sidelined him since October 2025.
On social media, Kota gave an update after surgery and revealed that he’s been living on medication that is taken by cancer patients, which means his condition isn’t “normal” according to him.
From Kota:
“Regarding this surgery. This is the first thought that came to mind—maybe it’s only because of where I am right now, but I feel I need to write it down. It’s the first time I’ve felt like giving up, like I’m about to lose to myself.
“I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m grateful that I was able to wrestle professionally for 22 years.
“Setting aside whether I’ll make a comeback or not, the first question is whether I can even become a “normal” person again. For the past year or so, I’ve been living on medication typically prescribed to cancer patients. That means my condition isn’t normal—my specialist urged me to have another surgery as soon as possible, which led to this procedure. Given my age, I want some time to think things through, but I’m going to try to face the reality of my situation head-on. Surprisingly, I was able to get out of the wheelchair after just one day. I still can’t move very well, but I’ve managed to start using crutches”
He initially underwent surgery in October 2025 when he suffered the injury during a match with Josh Alexander. He underwent another surgery in February when a screw came loose.