JD McDonagh has officially announced a leave of absence from WWE television to address lingering physical issues, a move that appears to be part of a small trend among superstars as the road to WrestleMania approaches. The Judgment Day member revealed on social media that he requires time off to “get put back together,” sharing a photo from a hospital bed that indicated he had undergone surgery on his hand or wrist.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, McDonagh isn’t the only one looking to get healthy before the company’s busiest season. Meltzer reported that while there won’t be a mass exodus, a select group of talent will be stepping away briefly to ensure they are at 100% for the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania.
“JD McDonagh announced he’s been working through some injuries and showed a photo of himself that appeared to be post-surgery for either his right hand or wrist,” Meltzer wrote. “I was told a few, not many, but a few, will be taking time off to heal up to get ready for Rumble/Mania season.”
This strategic rest period is crucial for performers looking to secure a spot on the year’s biggest cards. With the physical toll of the year-round schedule, taking a few weeks off in December allows talent to address nagging injuries.
While WWE has not confirmed the specific medical details of McDonagh’s procedure, his tag team partner Finn Balor provided a reassuring update. Balor, who was absent from this week’s Monday Night Raw to visit McDonagh, took to Twitter to calm fan concerns.
“I just got home this very second from checking on my dear friend [JD McDonagh] & I can confirm that he is in good spirits & will make a full recovery,” Balor wrote.
On television, the situation was addressed by Dominik Mysterio, who explained to fellow Judgment Day members Liv Morgan and Roxanne Perez that Balor was away attending to McDonagh. The “Irish Ace” last competed on the November 24 episode of Raw, where he was defeated by Rey Mysterio.
WWE is currently building toward the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event will kick off the official road to WrestleMania 42.
