Ric Flair is stepping back into the ring, but this time his opponent is skin cancer again. The wrestling icon confirmed Friday that he’s battling the disease for a second time.
“It’s the second time in three years that I’ve been dealing with skin cancer,” Flair told People. “I will be undergoing treatment next week.”
The 76-year-old initially pushed back on reports circulating about his health on Thursday but came forward to set the record straight the next day.
This latest diagnosis adds to a growing list of health battles Flair has faced in recent years. Back in 2017, he underwent surgery to remove a bowel obstruction that triggered a series of serious complications, including kidney failure. Then in 2022, he claimed he suffered a heart attack during what was billed as his final match.
Known as “The Nature Boy,” Flair is one of wrestling’s most decorated legends. He became a household name during the ’80s and ’90s with Jim Crockett Promotions and World Championship Wrestling before solidifying his legacy in WWE.
He previously shared the record for most world title reigns (16) with John Cena, a record Cena surpassed this past April. Flair’s influence is so monumental that he’s been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice—once individually and once as part of the iconic Four Horsemen faction. He’s also been honored by the NWA and Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.
As he readies for another fight, Flair’s legacy proves he’s never been one to back down.
