Ric Flair has issued an apology to fans after his advertised appearance did not air on the live broadcast of the AEW Dynamite “Blood and Guts” special. Fans online had noted Flair’s absence from the telecast, where he was expected to be part of an in-ring segment with Ricky Steamboat and FTR.
In a post on social media, the WWE Hall of Famer confirmed his absence was due to a legitimate injury and thanked Tony Khan.
“I Want To Apologize To Everyone For Having To Leave The @AEW Show Early Last Wednesday Due To My Rotator Cuff Injury. I Appreciate @TonyKhan Giving Me The Opportunity To Be On The Show. It Was Nice Catching Up With All The Great Talent And Ricky Steamboat. I Look Forward To Being Invited Again. After I Have My Shoulder Healed Up, I Will Be Back Up & Running. I Just Want You All To Know That I Would Never Disappoint You Intentionally.”
Flair was in attendance at the event in Greensboro, North Carolina. Flair did make a brief, non-televised appearance for the live crowd before the show began but left the arena early due to the discomfort from the injury. Flair’s inability to participate as planned forced AEW to “change the show around”. The televised segment ultimately featured Ricky Steamboat being confronted and attacked by FTR and Stokely Hathaway without Flair’s involvement.
Flair’s status with AEW has been a topic of discussion since he signed with the company in November 2023 to be part of Sting’s retirement tour. Following Sting’s final match, it was reported that Flair and the promotion had parted ways. He has since returned for special appearances, including a tribute to Steve “Mongo” McMichael in May 2025.
I Want To Apologize To Everyone For Having To Leave The @AEW Show Early Last Wednesday Due To My Rotator Cuff Injury. I Appreciate @TonyKhan Giving Me The Opportunity To Be On The Show. It Was Nice Catching Up With All The Great Talent And Ricky Steamboat. I Look Forward To Being… pic.twitter.com/sxGkBmRcET
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) November 17, 2025
