AEW

Kota Ibushi Still Hoping for AEW Return Despite Serious Injury

Kota Ibushi has not given up hope of returning to AEW, but no comeback is expected soon.

Kota Ibushi Still Hoping for AEW Return Despite Serious Injury
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Kota Ibushi still has no timetable for an AEW in-ring return, though he has not completely given up on the idea.

The Japanese star has been out of action since October 2025, when he suffered a serious right leg injury during a match against Josh Alexander. The bout ended with Alexander winning by count-out, while Ibushi had to be rushed away by the medical team.

According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Ibushi is still hoping to wrestle again, though a return is not expected any time soon.

“From what I understand, he (Kota Ibushi) has not given up hope for a return but it would not be any time soon.”

The situation surrounding the “Golden Star” remains delicate. In January, Ibushi himself indicated that the recovery timeline was long, though he said he would try to speed up the process and return sometime in 2026.

However, Ibushi suffered another setback in February. He revealed that he had to undergo another surgery after an important screw came loose, creating even more doubt about his future in the ring.

Despite his uncertain status, Ibushi is still listed on AEW’s official roster. So far, however, Tony Khan and the company have not announced any date or plans for his return.