Former WWE champion confirms he is not retiring; reveals future goals

A former WWE champion has caught attention online after confirming he is not retiring. The star even shared daring future goals.

Dustin Rhodes is currently signed to AEW but is absent due to an injury he suffered a few months ago. The Natural was forced to undergo a double knee replacement surgery and is now on the road to recovery. He attained legendary status as a wrestler during his tenure with WWE, and is a three-time Intercontinental and multi-time Hardcore Champion in the Stamford-based promotion. During his hiatus, the 56-year-old has stayed active on social media and is known for regularly replying to fan questions on X. Recently, while answering a user, the former TNT Champion stated that he was not retiring, as he had not yet won a World Title, a bold goal for someone possibly past their prime.

On X/Twitter, the fan shared a heartfelt message for Rhodes, thanking him for his service over the years before saying he wouldn't mind if he retired due to his injury. Responding to this, Rhodes confirmed that he was not retiring and revealed he has plans to win a World Championship.

"No sir. Not retiring. Still gotta world championship to win."

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Dustin Rhodes has no plans to return to WWE

In another instance of responding to users on X/Twitter, Dustin Rhodes stated that he will not be returning to WWE.

The user had suggested that The Natural was needed in the Stamford-based promotion to train upcoming stars on the promotion's NXT brand. In response, the former TNT champion said that the sports and entertainment juggernaut was in safe hands when it comes to talent development and reiterated that AEW is the place where he wants to be.

"They're in good hands. @AEW #ImWithAEW," wrote Dustin.

Time will tell when Rhodes will finally return to AEW, but given the seriousness of his injury, it won't be anytime soon.

About the author

Karan Raj is a senior writer in Sportskeeda's AEW division. He holds an engineering degree from Manipal University, but his passion for sports motivated him to pursue an MSc in Sports Business from the University of Liverpool. Karan has been in the sports marketing industry for the past seven years.

As a lifelong WWE fan and enthusiast of wrestling entertainment, he has always been drawn to the industry's unique blend of sports and storytelling. Karan was introduced to the business by his elder sister when he was 10 years old.

Before assuming his current role at Sportskeeda, Karan worked for several reputable organizations, such as Ting Works LLP and Sportz Interactive, wearing different hats. He also wrote the anthem of UP Rudras, a hockey team that played in the Hockey India League. Karan conducts thorough research while writing articles and only relies on credible sources for information.

Karan's favorite pro wrestler is Seth Rollins. He admires The Visionary's versatility as a performer and his ability to play both heel and babyface characters to perfection. Besides Rollins, Karan looks up to Roman Reigns for his storytelling skills and ability to captivate audiences.

In AEW, he enjoys watching Will Ospreay compete inside the ring. Karan loves The Aerial Assassin's technical in-ring ability and athleticism. If Karan could go back to the Attitude Era, he would combine forces with Jericho and promise to elevate his career to the same level as The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin.When not writing about pro wrestling, Karan loves to play and watch football. It is a huge part of his life.

He is also a massive fan of tennis and is learning to play the sport. Apart from sports, he also knows how to play the ukulele.

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Edited by Karan Raj