TAMPA, Florida — October 23, 2026. Professional wrestling legend Ric Flair, 77, was reportedly transported to a hospital by ambulance Friday morning after falling outside a restaurant in Tampa, Florida, sustaining injuries to his head and eye.
The incident occurred hours after the former WWE superstar publicly disclosed that he was dealing with a blood clot in his leg, a medical condition that had already forced him to cancel a scheduled appearance at a fan convention in Seattle.
RIC FLAIR FALLS OUTSIDE TAMPA RESTAURANT
According to initial reports, Flair was visiting a Wagamama restaurant in Tampa when the incident occurred.
The wrestling icon reportedly stood up from the bar, left his cellphone and drink behind, and walked across the street before suddenly falling.
Witness accounts described cuts to his head and eye, with significant bleeding around the eye area.
Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene, provided initial treatment and transported Flair to a nearby hospital for further evaluation.
A possible concussion was among the concerns raised in early reports, although no confirmed diagnosis has been publicly established.
HOSPITALIZATION FOLLOWS BLOOD CLOT REVELATION
Earlier Friday, Flair posted a message on X explaining that he would be unable to attend the Washington State Horror Con in Seattle because of a blood clot in his leg.
He said his doctors had restricted his travel to approximately three or four hours, making the planned trip to Washington state impossible.
Flair apologized to his agent, the event organizers and fans who had expected to see him at the convention.
He also acknowledged the potentially serious nature of blood clots and said he was scheduled to undergo a procedure involving the affected vein.
The exact medical procedure and its timing were not fully detailed in the information available.
CONNECTION BETWEEN FALL AND BLOOD CLOT REMAINS UNKNOWN
Although the fall occurred shortly after Flair disclosed his blood clot, there has been no medical confirmation linking the two events.
The cause of the fall has not been established, and it remains unclear whether Flair experienced dizziness, a loss of balance or another medical issue.
The extent of his injuries and his condition following hospitalization have also not been fully disclosed.
Any determination about a possible concussion or complications involving the blood clot would require an assessment by his treating medical team.
FLAIR HAS FACED SERIOUS HEALTH CHALLENGES
The 16-time world champion has experienced several major health problems over the past decade.
In 2017, Flair was hospitalized with life-threatening complications associated with an intestinal obstruction. His condition required intensive medical treatment and reportedly involved an induced coma and multiple organ complications.
Flair later revealed that he had suffered a heart attack during his final wrestling match in 2022, a condition he said was identified afterward.
In 2025, he also discussed treatment for skin cancer and subsequently reported recovering from the condition.
More recently, blood clot concerns have affected his ability to travel and participate in public appearances.
WRESTLING ICON REMAINS A MAJOR FIGURE IN THE INDUSTRY
Known worldwide as “The Nature Boy,” Flair built a decades-long career that made him one of professional wrestling’s most recognizable personalities.
His career included major championship runs in the National Wrestling Alliance, World Championship Wrestling and WWE.
He is also known for his flamboyant public persona, signature robes and distinctive “Woo!” catchphrase.
Although he retired from in-ring competition following a special event in 2022, Flair has continued making appearances at wrestling conventions, fan events and industry gatherings.
He has also maintained a connection with All Elite Wrestling through special appearances and his status as a wrestling legend.
FANS AWAIT UPDATES ON HIS CONDITION
The hospitalization has raised concern among wrestling fans, particularly because of Flair’s recent disclosure about his blood clot and his previous medical history.
As of the initial reports, no comprehensive medical update had been released detailing his injuries, treatment or expected recovery.
The immediate focus remains on his condition following the fall and any medical evaluation required.
Further information from Flair, his representatives or medical professionals will be needed to establish the seriousness of the incident and whether it will affect his future public appearances.
