Wrestling Legend Ric Flair Faces Second Skin Cancer Diagnosis
Recent Diagnosis Revealed
Wrestling icon Ric Flair, 76, has been diagnosed with skin cancer for the second time in three years. He confirmed the news to People magazine, reversing earlier denials on social media.
Flair will begin treatment next week, facing the disease with his signature resilience. Despite the diagnosis, he attended River City Wrestling Con in Florida recently, appearing in good spirits.
Background of Health Struggles
Flair’s health battles are well-documented. In 2017, he underwent surgery for a bowel obstruction, leading to kidney failure and a medically induced coma.
In 2022, he suffered a heart attack during his final match, collapsing twice. The wrestling legend has admitted past alcohol abuse contributed to his issues. This second skin cancer diagnosis adds to his ongoing challenges.
Who Is Ric Flair?
Known as “The Nature Boy,” Ric Flair is a professional wrestling legend. Born Richard Fliehr, he’s famous for his flamboyant persona, signature “Woo!” catchphrase, and lavish ring robes.
Flair’s career spans over 50 years, making him one of the most recognizable figures in wrestling. He currently lives part-time in Tampa, Florida, and Charlotte, North Carolina.
Career Highlights
Flair is a 16-time world heavyweight champion, a record he shared with John Cena until Cena’s 17th win in 2025. He wrestled across major promotions like the American Wrestling Association, National Wrestling Alliance, World Championship Wrestling, and WWE.
A two-time WWE Hall of Famer, Flair was inducted solo in 2008 and with the Four Horsemen faction in 2012. He’s currently signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), though he rarely appears.
Skin Cancer Recurrence
Flair’s first skin cancer diagnosis occurred about three years ago, with details kept private. This second bout has stirred emotional weight, with Flair initially denying rumors to maintain privacy.
Photos showing red marks on his forehead sparked speculation before his confirmation. He’s candid about the need for vigilance, as skin cancer can recur even after treatment. Flair’s experience underscores the importance of early detection and prevention.
Support and Controversy
Fans and peers have rallied around Flair, though some question the timing of his announcement amid recent controversies. He faced backlash for comments about fellow wrestling legend Jim Ross, who is battling colon cancer, calling them a joke gone wrong.
Despite this, Flair’s friend and manager, Anthony Maurizio, emphasized his emotional struggle and deep ties with Ross. The wrestling community continues to wish Flair strength.
At 76, the wrestling legend faces skin cancer with the same tenacity that defined his career. His openness about this second diagnosis, after initial hesitation, reflects a desire to connect with fans. Flair’s history of overcoming near-fatal health scares, from kidney failure to a heart attack, shows his strength.
