Karl Anderson Reveals Extent of Shoulder Injury, Projects Post-WrestleMania Return

One Big Thing

WWE superstar Karl Anderson underwent his first-ever orthopedic surgery last week, addressing a torn rotator cuff that had been plaguing him since September 2023. The former Raw Tag Team Champion expects to be sidelined for 6-9 months.

Why It Matters

Anderson’s extended absence impacts WWE’s tag team division and breaks up The OC stable at a time when tag team wrestling is experiencing a renaissance across major promotions. His injury also highlights the physical toll of professional wrestling, even on seasoned veterans.

By The Numbers

• 24 years: Time Anderson has been in professional wrestling
• 6-9 months: Projected recovery timeline
• 1st: Career orthopedic surgery for Anderson

Key Details

• Injury occurred during a match in September 2023
• Specific diagnosis: Torn supraspinatus tendon (rotator cuff) and partially torn labrum
• Surgery was performed in Birmingham, Alabama
• Last match: September 24, 2023, on WWE NXT against Hank Walker and Tank Ledger

Direct Quote

“I’ve never had that, to that extent,” Anderson said on his Talk’n Shop podcast. “And I went, ‘Hmm, let me tell somebody.'”

What’s Next

Anderson will continue his rehabilitation process with an eye on returning to WWE programming after WrestleMania 40. He plans to provide regular updates through his Talk’n Shop podcast.

With Karl Anderson’s injury impacting The OC’s presence on WWE programming, how do you think this will affect Luke Gallows’ role during Anderson’s absence? Share your thoughts in the comments below.