Ric Flair Reveals Skin Cancer Diagnosis After Previous Denial of Reports

Professional wrestling icon Ric Flair has disclosed that he is facing a battle with skin cancer for the second time in three years. This revelation comes after Flair previously denied reports of his health concerns in a bid to maintain his privacy.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 76-year-old Hall of Famer opened up about his diagnosis, stating, “It’s the second time in three years that I’ve been dealing with skin cancer. I will be undergoing treatment next week.” His candidness marks a significant shift from earlier communications, where he fervently denied any health issues.

Previous Denials and Social Media Misleading

Last month, amidst swirling rumors on social media, Flair took to the platform X to address the speculation directly. In a post dated May 5, he stated, “I’m sorry people have been misled by social media, but I don’t have cancer of any kind. Thank you for your concerns and for everyone reaching out. I am absolutely fine, and unfortunately, you’ll have to live and put up with me for another 25 years!” His comments reflected a strong desire to reassure fans about his health at that time.

Flair’s Personal Life and Recent Divorce

In addition to his health challenges, Flair’s personal life has also been in the spotlight. He recently announced his split from his fifth wife, Wendy Barlow, in September. The former WWE star took a moment to express gratitude towards Barlow for standing by him during a severe health crisis in 2017.

In a statement regarding their divorce, Flair said, “I’ll never be able to thank her enough for standing by my side through my terrible health crisis in 2017. She never left my side! And for that, I will always be grateful. We are working on different projects at the current time, and it becomes difficult with my schedule and her schedule to make this work.”

A Look Back at Flair’s Health Struggles

Ric Flair’s health issues first came to the forefront in 2017 when he was admitted to a Georgia hospital. Reports indicated he underwent surgery to remove part of his bowel due to complications from alcohol abuse. At that time, doctors discovered he was also in the early stages of kidney failure and on the verge of congestive heart failure.

The dramatic events of 2017 served as a wake-up call for the wrestling legend, prompting him to reassess his lifestyle and health choices. Flair has since tried to embrace healthier living practices and maintained a positive public image through his comeback in wrestling.

Flair’s Legacy and Impact on Wrestling

Despite his challenges, Flair remains a pivotal figure in the world of professional wrestling. Known for his charisma, style, and memorable catchphrases, he has left an indelible mark on the industry. Flair’s ongoing journey highlights not only his resilience but also serves as an inspiration to fans worldwide.

As he prepares for treatment once again, Flair’s tenacity and determination to overcome adversity have garnered admiration from many. Fans continue to rally around him with messages of support as he navigates this latest health battle.

A Community of Support

The wrestling community is known for its camaraderie, and Ric Flair is no exception. From fellow wrestlers to dedicated fans, many have taken to social media to express their support for Flair during this difficult time. This outpouring of concern reflects the respect he commands within the community and the impact he has had on countless lives.

In closing, as Ric Flair embarks on this new chapter in his health journey, his fans remain hopeful for his swift recovery. His battle with skin cancer serves as a reminder of the fragile nature of health and the importance of support systems around individuals facing adversity.

Stay tuned for more updates as Ric Flair continues his journey through treatment and recovery.