Key Takeaways
- Ric Flair was rushed to a hospital after falling near a Tampa restaurant, hours after revealing he has a blood clot in his leg.
- The WWE legend canceled a Seattle convention appearance because doctors limited his travel to three or four hours, stressing that blood clots can be life-threatening.
- Flair plans to undergo a procedure on the affected vein, but officials have not said whether the clot caused his fall or how the hospitalization will affect his treatment.
Ric Flair has been rushed to hospital after falling near a restaurant in Tampa, Florida, just hours after telling fans he's been fighting a blood clot.
According to TMZ, the fall happened on Friday (October 23). Earlier that day, the 16-time world champion posted on social media that he would miss a fan convention in Seattle because his doctors had told him not to take long flights with the clot.
Flair warned that clots can be dangerous and even deadly, and he mentioned Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, who was recently diagnosed with clots. He also apologized to his fans and his agent for canceling.
"Unfortunately, I am dealing with a blood clot in my leg, and my doctors have limited my travel to 3–4 hours," Flair wrote. "Seattle falls outside that range, and as disappointed as I am, I have to put my health and recovery first."
Flair also emphasized the potential dangers associated with blood clots, referencing Hurts and his recent health complications. "Blood clots are extremely serious and can be life-threatening," Flair went on. "We have seen this recently with Jalen Hurts and the complications involving blood clots in his lungs. It is a reminder that this is not something to take lightly, and I must follow medical advice."
The wrestling legend also revealed that he was preparing to undergo a medical procedure to address the affected vein, which doctors believe will eventually allow him to travel more freely.
"I'm scheduled to have a procedure to strip the affected vein, which my doctors expect will allow me to be cleared for more travel afterward," Flair wrote, before apologizing to his agent, Steve Solomon, Washington State Horror Con, Big Event NY and fans who had planned to see him at the convention.
"Please know this decision was not made lightly," he wrote. "I am truly sorry for the inconvenience and disappointment, and I am incredibly grateful for your patience, understanding, and continued support."
He ended his message by expressing optimism about his recovery.
"I look forward to getting healthy and seeing you all down the road. Thank you for the love and support."
It remains unclear whether Flair's fall was connected to his blood clot or how the hospitalization might affect his upcoming medical procedure. As of Friday afternoon, additional details regarding Flair's condition and the extent of his injuries had not been released.
