Latest WWE Injury Updates – How They Happened & When Stars Will Return

Injuries are an unfortunate reality in WWE, sidelining some of the industry’s top talents. Despite the grueling schedule and intense action on Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, it’s remarkable that injuries don’t occur even more frequently.

While some superstars recover quickly, others face extended absences—sometimes longer than initially expected due to creative decisions rather than just medical setbacks. Triple H and WWE’s creative team often wait for the right moment to bring back talent in meaningful ways.

Here’s a look at the latest WWE injuries, how they happened, and when fans can expect to see these superstars return to action.

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Bronson Reed (Broken Foot)

Injury Date: Survivor Series: WarGames (November 2024)
Bronson Reed suffered a gruesome foot injury during WarGames, when his ankle bent awkwardly after delivering a Tsunami splash from the top of the cage. He has remained upbeat on social media, but his return is indefinite, making it likely he will miss WrestleMania 41.
Expected Return: TBC

Ilja Dragunov (Torn ACL)

Injury Date: September 28, 2024 (House Show vs. GUNTHER)
Dragunov’s injury came during a live event match, a tough setback just as he was making waves on Raw. Initial estimates put his recovery at 6-9 months, but reports indicate he is ahead of schedule.
Expected Return: March–June 2025

JD McDonagh (Broken Rib & Punctured Lung)

Injury Date: January 27, 2025 (Raw)
McDonagh suffered a broken rib and punctured lung after a failed moonsault spot sent him crashing into the announce table. Despite the severity, he reassured fans via social media. His return date remains uncertain.
Expected Return: TBC

Tyler Bate (Torn Pectoral Muscle)

Injury Date: July 2, 2024 (NXT)
Bate tore his pectoral muscle in a tag match with Pete Dunne. While initial reports suggested a January return, he has yet to reappear, though his comeback seems imminent.
Expected Return: Any time now

Asuka (Knee Injury)

Injury Date: Unclear (Revealed Post-Backlash France 2024)
Asuka worked through a knee injury for months before finally undergoing surgery. Reports in January suggested she was medically cleared, meaning her return is imminent.
Expected Return: Any time now

Kairi Sane (Arm Injury)

Injury Date: December 16, 2024 (Raw)
Sane was written off TV with an arm injury, but was later seen without a sling during Royal Rumble weekend. She has also been training in Japan, hinting that a return is near.
Expected Return: Any time now

Kiana James (Leg Injury)

Injury Date: Unclear (Sidelined Since June 2024)
James’ last WWE match was in June 2024, with reports later confirming she had suffered a leg injury. Initial estimates suggested at least six months out of action.
Expected Return: TBC

Apollo Crews (Torn Pectoral Muscle)

Injury Date: January 24, 2025 (SmackDown vs. Johnny Gargano)
Crews tore his pectoral muscle in a match against Johnny Gargano, visibly clutching his shoulder after taking a backstabber. His return timetable is uncertain.
Expected Return: TBC

Tonga Loa (Torn Bicep)

Injury Date: Survivor Series: WarGames (November 2024)
Tonga Loa sustained a torn bicep in the chaotic WarGames match. Initially ruled out for 8 weeks, his return is expected soon, potentially impacting The Bloodline’s storyline.
Expected Return: Any time now

Noam Dar (Leg Injury)

Injury Date: June 2024
Dar suffered a severe leg injury, tearing a tendon clean off the bone. His faction, Meta-Four, was gaining momentum before his injury, and it remains to be seen if WWE will move forward with their main roster debut upon his return.
Expected Return: TBC

Which WWE superstar are you excited to see return?