Ric Flair Gives Unusual Reason For AEW Absence

WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair is being kept on the AEW sidelines.

Ric Flair appeared for AEW several times in late 2023 and into 2024, repeatedly popping up during Sting’s retirement run. The Nature Boy’s last appearance came at Revolution during Sting’s last match against the Young Bucks.

The WWE Hall of Famer also had an energy drink deal with the company, but as 2024 continued, this was quietly dropped.

In January, it was reported that a planned appearance for Ric Flair was dropped, which only added to speculation around his standing with the company.

Ric Flair Confirms AEW Status

During an appearance on Busted Open Radio, Flair discussed his current status with AEW, reiterating that he remains under contract. However, he believes his lack of appearances stems from issues with Tony Khan after he failed to disclose he was using blood thinners.

The problem came to the fore when Flair planned to blade during Sting’s last match before he was ultimately blocked from doing so by Khan.

“The reason I’m not on TV now is that [AEW CEO] Tony [Khan] didn’t know I was on blood thinners. I’ve been on blood thinners because I had a real bad blood clot in my leg at one time. At Sting’s last match, I had already made a blade. I was ready to go. He said, ‘No, I don’t want you doing nothing.’

I made blades for all the guys in the old days, ‘Okay Ric, make me a blade.’ I said] ‘Okay, get me a scissors and some Johnson & Johnson tape.’”

Ahead of WrestleMania 41, Ric Flair claimed he wouldn’t be able to attend the event because of his AEW deal. Many had expected Flair to make an appearance, at least in the crowd, as John Cena passed his long-standing World Championship record as he beat Cody Rhodes.

His daughter Charlotte also wrestled on the card, challenging Tiffany Stratton for the Women’s Championship on night one.

H/t to WrestleZone