Jerry “The King” Lawler is a name synonymous with professional wrestling. From his legendary in-ring career to his iconic commentary alongside Jim Ross during WWE’s Attitude Era, Lawler has left an indelible mark on the industry. However, his journey has been punctuated by significant health challenges that have tested his resilience and determination.
The 2012 Heart Attack Incident
On September 10, 2012, during a live broadcast of WWE’s Monday Night Raw at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Jerry Lawler collapsed at the announcers’ table. He had just competed in a tag-team match with Randy Orton against Dolph Ziggler and CM Punk. While Kane and Daniel Bryan faced The Prime Time Players in the ring, Lawler’s sudden collapse shocked the WWE Universe.
WWE commentators Michael Cole and Jim Ross immediately reacted, with Cole continuing the broadcast alone while providing updates on Lawler’s condition. It was later revealed that Lawler had suffered a heart attack and was clinically dead for nearly 30 minutes before being revived. He underwent an angioplasty and was slowly eased off sedation, with doctors confirming no signs of brain damage. By September 17, Lawler had returned home to Memphis, marking a remarkable recovery. WWE+1
Subsequent Health Challenges
2018 Stroke
In 2018, Lawler experienced his first stroke, which prompted a period of recovery. Details about the severity and specific impacts of this stroke remain limited, but it marked the beginning of a series of health issues for the wrestling legend.
2023 Massive Stroke
On February 2023, Lawler suffered a significant stroke at his Florida home. The episode was described as “massive,” leading to a prolonged stay in the ICU. Despite the severity, Lawler’s resilience shone through as he began outpatient rehabilitation and made strides toward recovery.
Recent Health Scare: Third Stroke in 2025
On September 5, 2025, Lawler faced another health setback when he suffered a stroke at one of his residences in Florida. This incident led to the cancellation of his scheduled appearance at the Horrorhound convention in Cincinnati. Lawler’s daughter, Heather, reported that he is now recuperating at his primary residence, where he is expected to rest for several weeks before resuming normal activities.
The Road to Recovery
Despite these health challenges, Jerry Lawler’s recovery has been nothing short of inspiring. After each incident, he has demonstrated remarkable resilience, returning to the public eye and continuing to engage with fans. His positive outlook and determination serve as a testament to his strength and character.
Legacy and Impact
Beyond his health battles, Jerry Lawler’s contributions to professional wrestling are immeasurable. His feuds, particularly the legendary rivalry with comedian Andy Kaufman, brought mainstream attention to the sport. As a commentator, Lawler’s chemistry with Jim Ross became the voice of an era, calling some of the most memorable moments in WWE history.
Even after stepping away from regular commentary duties, Lawler remains a beloved figure in the wrestling community. His appearances, whether in-ring or behind the microphone, continue to elicit cheers from fans worldwide.
Conclusion
Jerry Lawler’s journey through health challenges has been marked by courage and perseverance. Each setback has been met with a comeback, reflecting the resilience that has defined his illustrious career. As he continues his recovery, fans and the wrestling community stand united in wishing him strength and good health. Jerry “The King” Lawler’s legacy is not just built on his achievements in the ring but also on his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
