Adam Cole Injury: What Happened and What’s Next for the AEW Star?
Adam Cole injury updates have become a frequent topic among AEW fans, especially since his shocking absence from in-ring action. The former NXT and AEW champion suffered a serious ankle injury in 2023, which forced him out of multiple planned matches and major events, including AEW WrestleDream and Dynamite appearances.
⚠️ How Did Adam Cole Get Injured?
Cole sustained his injury during AEW Dynamite: Grand Slam on September 20, 2023. Although he wasn’t actively wrestling in that moment, he jumped off the entrance ramp to check on MJF during the ROH Tag Team Championship match — and landed awkwardly.
This led to a broken ankle with multiple complications. Medical scans revealed that Cole had fractured his ankle in three separate places, along with torn ligaments — a more serious injury than initially reported.
“I broke my ankle in three places. It’s really bad — like, bad, bad,” Cole told fans in an October Twitch stream.
🏥 Surgery and Recovery Timeline
Shortly after the injury, Cole underwent intensive surgery that required the insertion of screws and plates to stabilize the damage. According to AEW medical staff, the recovery period was expected to last at least 6–9 months.
Despite the long rehab, Cole has remained vocal online, interacting with fans and staying connected through Twitch streams and podcast appearances. However, he has not returned to in-ring competition since.
🕐 When Will Adam Cole Return to AEW?
As of mid-2025, there is still no official return date for Adam Cole. AEW President Tony Khan and medical personnel continue to monitor his recovery closely. While there is hope he could return by late 2025, his health remains the top priority.
“I don’t want to rush it,” Cole said in a recent update. “I’ll be back when I’m ready — and when I do come back, I’m going all in.”
🔥 Why Cole’s Return Matters to AEW
Before his injury, Cole was building serious momentum in storylines with MJF and potentially heading toward an AEW World Championship run. His absence left a major gap in AEW’s top-tier storytelling, especially since his “Better Than You, Bay Bay” tag team with MJF had become a fan-favorite act.
Once healthy, Cole is expected to re-enter the title picture and play a central role in AEW’s main event scene.
🙋 FAQs About Adam Cole’s Injury
❓What injury did Adam Cole suffer?
He broke his ankle in three places and tore multiple ligaments during AEW Grand Slam in September 2023.
❓Did Adam Cole have surgery?
Yes, he underwent surgery and had metal plates and screws inserted to repair the damage.
❓When will Adam Cole return to AEW?
There’s no confirmed date, but a return is possible in late 2025 if recovery continues smoothly.
❓Was Adam Cole injured in a match?
No, the injury occurred while jumping off the ramp during a live segment — not during an active match.
