Dustin Rhodes Nearing AEW Return, Eyes Retirement Within Next Few Years

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star Dustin Rhodes is on track to return to the ring within the next two to three weeks following double knee replacement surgery, and anticipates retiring from professional wrestling within the next couple of years. Rhodes shared the update after his mastiff, Beast, earned third place in the working group open category at Crufts – the world’s largest dog show – in the United Kingdom on March 5, 2026.

Recovery and Return Timeline

Rhodes underwent double knee replacement surgery in summer 2025. He stated that his modern knees are “feeling pretty good,” though he acknowledged some fatigue from walking at the large Crufts venue. He expects to be back on AEW programming – potentially on TBS, TNT, or HBO Max – within two to three weeks. [F4W/WON]

Long-Term AEW Commitment and Future Role

The 56-year-old Rhodes signed a six-year contract with AEW in February 2025, extending his commitment beyond his in-ring career. [WrestlingNews.co] He intends to transition into a behind-the-scenes role as a producer after retiring from active competition. [Sportskeeda]

AEW’s Wrestling-Focused Approach

Rhodes highlighted AEW’s emphasis on wrestling quality as a key differentiator from WWE, where he competed for 24 years before joining AEW seven years ago. He praised AEW President Tony Khan and owner Shad Khan for fostering a growing promotion focused on delivering strong matches. [Fox News]

“I think it’s the fact that we’re just not all entertainment,” Rhodes said. “We are about wrestling, about putting on the best matches that we possibly can. It’s the alternative to WWE.”

Recent Championship History

Rhodes won the TNT Championship at All In Texas on July 12, 2025, but lost it to Kyle Fletcher on July 31, 2025. He subsequently vacated the ROH World Six-Man and ROH World Tag Team Championships following the announcement of his require for knee surgery. [Fox News]

Beast’s Success at Crufts

Outside of the ring, Rhodes’ mastiff, Beast, has been gaining recognition as a show dog. Beast recently took third place in the working group open category at Crufts, the world’s largest dog show, held in the United Kingdom. Rhodes described Beast as a smart and loyal companion, weighing over 250 pounds. [Fox News]