WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair announced on Friday that he is canceling his scheduled appearance at this weekend’s Atlanta Comic Con. In a statement posted to his official social media account, the legendary wrestler cited “personal and health related issues” as the reason for his withdrawal from the event.
The convention, a popular annual gathering for pop culture fans, was set to feature Flair as one of its prominent celebrity guests. Fans had been anticipating the opportunity for autographs and photo opportunities with “The Nature Boy” on Saturday.
Flair’s Statement to Fans
In his post, Flair directly addressed his fans and the convention organizers, expressing his regret for the last-minute change of plans.
“I Am Not Going To Be At The @ATL_CC Tomorrow Because Of Personal And Health Related Issues,” Flair wrote. “Thank You So Much For Understanding & For All The Appreciation! I Look Forward To Seeing You At A Future Signing.”
I Am Not Going To Be At The @ATL__CC Tomorrow Because Of Personal And Health Related Issues. Thank You So Much For Understanding & For All The Appreciation! I Look Forward To Seeing You At A Future Signing.
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) July 18, 2025
A History of Health Concerns
The mention of “health related issues” is of particular concern to Flair’s fans, as the 76-year-old icon has battled a number of serious and well-documented health problems in recent years. In early June 2025, Flair revealed exclusively to PEOPLE that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer for the “second time in three years” and would be undergoing treatment. Later that month, he posted on social media asking for prayers as he was set for another surgery related to his health issues.
This recent battle with cancer is just the latest in a long line of health challenges for the “Nature Boy.” In August 2017, he faced a near-fatal health crisis when he was placed in a medically induced coma due to a bowel obstruction, which led to the early stages of kidney failure and put him on the verge of congestive heart failure. After doctors gave him a low chance of survival, he underwent emergency surgery to remove part of his bowel and later had a pacemaker inserted.
Ric Flair signed a multi-year deal with All Elite Wrestling in November 2023. He was heavily involved in the build to Sting’s retirement, appearing alongside Sting and Darby Allin and getting physically involved with The Young Bucks. Flair returned on the May 14, 2025, episode of Collision as part of a tribute segment for wrestling legend Steve “Mongo” McMichael. No official statement has been released by AEW or Flair’s representatives providing further details on his current condition. We send him all of the best wishes.
