WWE star Zoey Stark, sidelined since May due to a serious knee injury, has offered a promising update on her recovery progress. After suffering torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus ligaments during a May 19 match on WWE Raw, Stark underwent a grueling three-and-a-half-hour surgery and faced months of rehabilitation. Recent reports and firsthand updates reveal that she has overcome significant setbacks and is now regaining full mobility with hopes of returning to the ring in the near future.
The Injury and Surgery: A Devastating Setback
Zoey Stark’s knee injury occurred during a Money in the Bank qualifying match on the May 19, 2025 edition of WWE Raw. She attempted a missile dropkick but landed awkwardly, injuring her knee severely enough to be removed from the match and subsequently sidelined indefinitely. Medical evaluation confirmed tears in her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and meniscus—three critical components that stabilize and cushion the knee joint.
Shortly after, she underwent surgery at the Rothman Orthopaedics Surgery Center in Orlando. Though initially expected to last around two hours, the operation extended to over three and a half hours due to the complexity of repairs needed on all three knee structures. After the procedure, Stark posted a video from the hospital giving fans a thumbs up and promising more updates as she moved into recovery[1].
Recovery Challenges and Emotional Toll
Recovery from such extensive knee injuries is notoriously difficult for professional wrestlers, whose performance depends heavily on knee stability, flexibility, and strength. Stark faced additional obstacles when she was informed she might require a secondary procedure—either a scope to clean out scar tissue or a manipulation under anesthesia—to restore her range of motion.
She candidly shared this setback in an emotional video update in October 2025. Stark explained how her limited mobility had stalled progress and weighed heavily on her mental health: “One of the reasons why I was having a hard time was because I was told that either I would have to get a scope done… or get a manipulation under anesthesia… and that would have pushed my recovery back. That’s why I was so upset…”[2][4].
Back On Track: Full Range of Motion Achieved
Fortunately, Stark was able to avoid the additional procedure. In her latest recovery update, she revealed that she now has full range of motion in her knee, and she is back to running and jumping during physical therapy. “Now we’re back on track. That did not have to happen, thank God. Now I’m running, I’m jumping, I have full range of motion. Things are going great. Honestly, I’m happy. I’m blessed,” Stark said[2][5].
Sources within WWE corroborated that Stark is making great strides and that her recovery timeline is looking optimistic. “Zoey’s been pushing hard in rehab, and while it’s been a long road, the medical team and trainers are really encouraged by her progress. She’s showing the resilience that we love to see in our performers,” said a WWE insider speaking on condition of anonymity.
What This Means for Zoey Stark’s WWE Future
Though Stark is visibly optimistic, there is no official return date announced. Given the severity of her injury and the need for cautious rehabilitation to prevent recurrence, many expect Stark to remain off WWE programming at least through early 2026, possibly longer.
She was expected to be out past WrestleMania 42, and while the exact timing of her return is unknown, her latest updates suggest she is moving steadily toward ring readiness. Fans and WWE alike remain hopeful to see Stark back competing at a high level, leveraging her athleticism and charisma that made her a standout on Raw and NXT before the injury[1][6].
Looking Ahead: Patience Is Key
Zoey Stark’s injury recovery underscores how unpredictable and challenging comeback journeys can be for professional wrestlers. As she emphasized, “Progress doesn’t always look pretty. It just takes consistency, patience, and faith.” Her transparency and positivity have inspired fans amid her setbacks.
For now, medical professionals, WWE staff, and Stark herself are focused on continuing rehabilitation safely with the goal of restoring full performance capabilities. Given the extensive physical demands of WWE, rushing recovery is never an option.
Final Thoughts
Zoey Stark’s recent knee injury was a major blow to WWE’s women’s division, but her determined recovery is a testament to her strength and spirit. With surgery behind her and now enjoying full range of motion, many expect to see the resilient athlete back in action sooner rather than later.
As the road to her wrestling return progresses, Stark continues to update fans on her journey, exemplifying professionalism and transparency throughout her rehabilitation process.
“What’s next for Zoey Stark? We’re all watching closely—but one thing’s certain: this isn’t the last time we’ll see her in the ring,” shared a WWE insider about the promising recovery milestone.
Fans eager for Stark’s return can expect more updates as she inches closer to reclaiming her spot in WWE’s competitive roster. Until then, patience and support remain key as she continues her inspiring comeback.