AFW Weekly Wrestling Update

Sending Strength to a True Legend

The wrestling world is rallying behind Fred Ottman, the beloved powerhouse known to generations as Tugboat, Typhoon, and the man behind the legendary Shockmaster. Ottman has been hospitalized in St. Petersburg, Florida, for over 30 days following a critical medical emergency where his gallbladder ruptured, releasing toxins into his system.

​It has been a grueling month for the "Natural Disaster" star, but there is a glimmer of hope. Recent updates indicate that he has been making steady progress under intense care, with plans to transition home early this week. However, the road to recovery remains long, as he is scheduled to return for further procedures later this month to remove a biliary drainage catheter. Reflecting on the ordeal, Ottman shared a message of gratitude for his wife, family, and the fans who have flooded him with support. As one of the genuinely kindest souls in the business, the entire industry is pulling for a full recovery.

The American Dragon Isn’t Closing the Door!

If you’ve been online at all this morning, you’ve seen the statement from Bryan Danielson that has the entire wrestling world buzzing. It looks like the "American Dragon" might not be as "retired" as we thought!

​Danielson recently shared that after a recommendation from Adam Copeland in April 2025, he spent some intensive time with a specialist who he calls a "miracle worker." After years of struggling, he’s finally sleeping 8 hours a night and feeling like a new man. In his own words:

​"I don’t close it off. Maybe... That’s a game changer for how you feel."

​It’s the most optimistic he’s sounded about his physical health in a long time. While he’s been killing it in his post-in-ring roles, we all know the itch to compete never truly goes away—especially when the body finally starts feeling good again. If he’s waking up without pain and actually getting rest, a return to the ring feels less like a dream and more like a distinct possibility.

The Inspiration Heading to AEW?

According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the rumor mill is spinning fast regarding Cassie Lee and Jessica McKay. There has reportedly been "a lot of talk" about The Inspiration making their way to All Elite Wrestling. This chatter has intensified since the duo wrapped up their successful run in TNA, departing shortly after dropping their tag titles to The Elegance Brand on TNA’s high-profile AMC debut show on January 15.

​Dave Meltzer noted that the talk of them joining Tony Khan’s promotion has been persistent ever since they left TNA "for another opportunity." With AEW’s massive Grand Slam: Australia event set for February 15 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, fans are speculating that a homecoming debut for the iconic Australian duo would be the perfect way to shake up the AEW women’s division.

​Touchdowns and Máscaras: AEW x NFL

Tony Khan has officially bridged the gap between his two worlds by announcing a massive merchandise collaboration between AEW and the NFL.

Starting April 23—coinciding with the first night of the NFL Draft—fans will be able to purchase official lucha libre masks for all 32 NFL teams. These masks feature team-specific designs and dual AEW/NFL branding.

​"It’s really exciting to be able to talk about a partnership that I’ve always dreamed of," Khan stated during an interview with Compas on the Beat. "I’ve always wanted the NFL and AEW to work together." The masks are being marketed as the ultimate collectible for the tailgating crowd, blending the rich tradition of Mexican wrestling with the fervor of American football.

A Major Blow to the WWE Universe!

In a heartbreaking turn for the "Badass" of the Steiner bloodline, Bron Breakker has reportedly undergone surgery to repair a serious hernia. The news, first broken by the Wrestling Observer, comes at a devastating time as Breakker was hitting a career-high stride. This was said ro have happened while flipping a table On last week's Monday Night Raw. Typical recovery for this procedure is four to six weeks, and WWE creative remains hopeful that he could be cleared in time for WrestleMania 42 this April. If we know anything about the Steiner legacy, "recovery" usually just means more time in the gym. The Intercontinental title scene won't be the same without those 20mph spears, but the countdown to his return has already begun.

A Hogan Returns to the Performance Cente?

​Reports from PWInsider Elite have confirmed that Nick Bollea, known to many as Nick Hogan, was spotted at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando this week. The sighting has sparked a wildfire of speculation across the internet wrestling community. Since the emotional passing of his father, the immortal Hulk Hogan, in July 2025, Nick has been more vocal than ever about wrestling being "in the blood."

​At 35 years old, Nick has recently been seen training in the ring, fueling rumors of a potential late-career debut or a special attraction.

WWE Family Helping one of their Own

Liv Morgan, Rhea Ripley & Bayley donated $5,000 each to WWE referee Daphanie LeShaunn & her family after a house fire tragically killed her grandparents, uncle & cousin. We wish Daphanie and her family the best during heartbreaking time. Halos up from all of us here are AFW.

Stay tuned in for all your wrestling updates here at Allfnwrestling.com

This has been a Canada FN Dry & Kimster news update!