Adam Cole Withdraws from Match, Forfeits Championship

Wrestling star Adam Cole had to step back from his scheduled match against Kyle Fletcher, leading him to forfeit the AEW TNT Championship.

This decision came when AEW President Tony Khan set up a four-way match for the title, including fighters Daniel Garcia, Sammy Guevara, and Dustin Rhodes. Before the event at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, Cole addressed the crowd, suggesting there might be changes ahead.

In what felt like an emotional moment, he explained, “I’m really sorry for letting you down. I can’t wrestle tonight due to some health issues that require me to take a break.”

Cole also mentioned he wasn’t ready to contemplate retirement, acknowledging the supportive wrestling community. His heartfelt speech preceded his appearance with Roderick Strong and Kyle O’Reilly in the ring.

He didn’t go into specifics about his health issues, but reports hinted that he was dealing with a concussion.

After this turn of events, Rhodes went on to win the TNT Championship in the four-way match.

Cole’s journey in AEW began in 2021, marked by a dramatic debut and intense rivalries, notably with Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF). They briefly teamed up, securing the Ring of Honor World Tag Team Championship, but eventually, Cole turned on MJF.

However, a significant ankle injury sidelined him for about six months, from December 2023 to May 2024. By December 2024, he had settled the feud with MJF.

Cole secured the AEW TNT Championship in April, marking his first title win in the promotion, defeating Daniel Garcia.

Before joining AEW, he made a name for himself in Combat Zone Wrestling, Ring of Honor, and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, and also had a stint with WWE starting in 2017.