Former WWE superstar Braun Strowman has opened up about how a serious neck injury in 2023 unexpectedly became the catalyst for his new television venture, Everything on the Menu. What began as a daunting recovery process transformed into a creative opportunity away from the wrestling ring, marking a new chapter in the career of the “Monster Among Men.”
A Career-Interrupting Injury
In May 2023, Braun Strowman, known outside the ring as Adam Scherr, suffered a severe neck injury that initially seemed to be a concussion. However, subsequent medical scans revealed substantial damage requiring surgical intervention. He underwent cervical fusion surgery to stabilize his C4 and C5 vertebrae, involving the insertion of a metal plate and screws—a procedure supervised by Dr. Cordover at Andrews Sports Medicine[1]. This brought a necessary pause to his in-ring career, as the recovery was arduous and involved significant physical and mental challenges. Strowman lost 35 pounds during a grueling eight-week period post-surgery, underscoring the toll the injury had taken[1].
From Rehab to a New Inspiration
The time off the wrestling circuit forced by the injury gave Strowman a rare chance to reflect on his future. Rather than solely focusing on wrestling’s physical demands, he found inspiration in his downtime to explore interests outside sports entertainment. According to sources close to Strowman, this period sparked the idea for Everything on the Menu, a food-focused TV show where Braun travels across the U.S., sampling full meals from various regional eateries—not just a single dish but the entire local spread[3].
One WWE insider shared, “Braun’s personality has always been larger than life. When the injury sidelined him, he didn’t let downtime stall his creativity. Instead, he channeled that energy into this unique culinary concept that reflects his larger-than-life persona in a different light”[3].
The Show: Everything on the Menu
Produced by WWE Studios, Everything on the Menu showcases Strowman’s engaging charisma and love for food as he explores America’s diverse culinary landscape. The series is a departure from the physicality of professional wrestling but still allows Braun to connect with fans by sharing his authentic self.
Strowman expressed enthusiasm about the project, sharing that it has filled a creative void while he continues rehabilitation. “It’s been refreshing getting to showcase a different side of me,” he said in a recent interview. “Recovering from the injury was tough, but it opened doors I hadn’t thought about before. This show is a way for me to keep entertaining and connecting with people without the pain.”[3]
Looking Ahead: Wrestling and Beyond
Despite his injury and new ventures, Braun Strowman has not ruled out a wrestling comeback. In multiple interviews, he’s hinted that his time away from the ring is a carefully considered pause rather than retirement. “I miss the adrenaline and the crowd,” he shared, “but right now, it’s about healing and doing what feels right.”
Backstage sources suggest WWE officials remain supportive of his recovery timeline, recognizing the physical demands that wrestling places on an athlete with his history. “Everyone knows Braun has the passion to return, but it’s about doing it safely,” said a WWE insider. “He’s exploring creative outlets in the meantime, which is smart for his long-term well-being.”[3]
Furthermore, Strowman has additional entertainment projects lined up, including four films planned for the coming year, reflecting his expanding footprint beyond the squared circle[3].
The Road to Recovery: A Cautionary Tale
Strowman’s neck injury highlights the risks professional wrestlers face. His surgery to fuse two vertebrae was crucial in preventing further damage; he remains focused on rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility[1]. The incident also underlined his resilience—both physically and mentally—as he navigates recovery while reinventing his career.
“I was paralyzed for a brief period in the ring,” Strowman once recounted, describing the severity of his injury[2]. Such moments emphasize the precarious nature of the profession, where a single move can change everything. His story offers fans and fellow wrestlers a poignant reminder of the importance of health and adaptation.
Braun Strowman’s shift from wrestling powerhouse to food show host illustrates how adversity can lead to unexpected new paths. With Everything on the Menu gaining traction and more entertainment opportunities on the horizon, Strowman is proving his versatility and drive to stay relevant in the public eye while prioritizing his health. Wrestling fans and foodies alike will be watching closely as this former WWE titan expands his legacy far beyond the ring.