Braun Strowman, one of WWE’s most physically imposing and popular superstars, recently opened up about a career-threatening neck injury that nearly ended his time in professional wrestling. During a candid conversation on TMZ Inside The Ring, Strowman detailed how this severe injury forced him off the road, and how that time away from the ring sparked the creation of his new television series, Everything on the Menu with Braun Strowman, which will premiere this Friday on the USA Network.
The Devastating Neck Injury
Braun Strowman explained that in 2023, he suffered a serious neck injury during a WWE match that caused him to pinch his spine in such a way that both his arms went limp, and he experienced paralysis for a brief time. “My head almost fell off,” Strowman said, describing the alarming severity of the injury. For about three minutes, he was essentially immobilized, which is an extraordinary and frightening experience for any wrestler inside the ring[9][7].
This injury required spinal fusion surgery at Andrews Sports Medicine, a top facility renowned for treating elite athletes. Dr. Cordover performed the operation to fuse the C4 and C5 vertebrae in Strowman’s neck, a complex procedure that demands an extended recovery time[2][3]. Strowman praised WWE for their exceptional care during his recovery process, emphasizing how the company prioritized his health every step of the way.
Wrestling Through Pain: A Career Marked by Serious Injuries
The neck injury is just one of many brutal physical setbacks Strowman has endured throughout his career. He shared with reporters that even before his televised WWE debut, he had ruptured his L5S1 vertebra causing paralysis in his left leg, requiring emergency surgery. To this day, he wrestles with about 15% partial paralysis in that leg[1][4].
Additionally, Strowman has undergone two elbow surgeries, suffered a torn groin during a match with Bronson Reed which he concealed for an extended period, and lives with multiple scars from various on-screen accidents most notably from the infamous Wyatt Family swamp fight where he was thrown through a windshield. He also mentioned having a metal plate with four screws in his neck, a grim reminder of the physical toll of wrestling[1][4].
How the Injury Led to New Ventures Outside the Ring
During his downtime while healing, Strowman channeled his energy into creating Everything on the Menu with Braun Strowman, a show focusing on food challenges and culinary exploration. This project marks his first major foray into television outside of WWE programming, allowing him to engage fans in a new way while he rehabilitates.
According to sources close to WWE, the injury was a turning point for Strowman both personally and professionally. “Being sidelined for so long forced Braun to rethink what he wanted from life and wrestling,” a WWE insider shared. “This new show is part of his evolving brand, showing he’s more than just a powerhouse in the ring.”[9]
The Road to Recovery and Future in Wrestling
Strowman was recently cleared by medical professionals to resume weight training but still awaits the green light for in-ring contact and full wrestling activities. Recovering from spinal fusion is a gradual and delicate process because bone healing is slow and can’t be rushed[7].
While his WWE return date is still uncertain, Strowman remains optimistic. Echoing the famous Terminator line, he told fans, “I’ll be back!” in a heartfelt social media announcement after his surgery[2]. However, at 41 years old and with a history of serious injuries, the future of his wrestling career remains an open question.
Backstage Perspectives: A Career Cut Short?
Sources close to the WWE locker room reveal that Strowman’s injury has generated both concern and respect among fellow wrestlers and company officials. One WWE insider told us, “The fact Braun worked through so many brutal injuries before this neck surgery shows his tremendous dedication, but everyone knows this wasn’t just another bump it was a scare that almost ended his career.”
Over the years, WWE’s top brass, including Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque, have monitored Strowman’s health closely, especially given his intense wrestling style and physicality inside the ring. While some speculate his next run with WWE may be limited or even permanent farewell, others believe his passion will pull him back in some capacity[4].
Summary: A Fighter Inside and Outside the Ring
Braun Strowman’s career exemplifies the physical sacrifices professional wrestling demands. From partial paralysis and multiple surgeries to one of the scariest injuries possible a neck injury with temporary paralysis Strowman has demonstrated resilience and grit.
His ability to pivot into a television career while on injury leave shows adaptability and a multidimensional personality beyond wrestling. WWE fans now eagerly await his return to the ring or continued success with his television endeavors while wishing him the best on his road to full recovery.