'Double Surgeries' - AEW Star Keith Lee Dealt Another Setback

All Elite Wrestling superstar Keith Lee's year is off to a rocky start. He suffered a setback last month when he had to pull out of a match against Swerve Strickland at AEW World's End due to an injury. While fans have been hopeful he would return to action soon, he won't be able to compete for a while.

In a statement written to Nick Hausman, Lee shared that he is set to undergo two double surgeries. AEW star seems to admit that he didn't need surgery for 19 years of his career, but unfortunately, it was his time.

Hausman transcribed the following quotes he received from Lee.

“Took roughly 19 years…. but I guess it’s my turn," wrote Lee. He continued, “Time to get fixed. Here’s to double surgeries. Certainly, one way to start 2024.”

It's unclear what the specific injury Lee has to get fixed or how long he is expected to be out of action. The update from the AEW superstar is unfortunate, as it seemed like he was recently building momentum in the company.

Lee started gaining traction by winning a mixed eight-person tag team match at AEW WrestleDream on October 1, 2023. He continued to be featured for both AEW and Ring Of Honor, including competing in a loss against Samoa Joe for the ROH World Television Championship. In his last three matches, he won three consecutive matches, and AEW was ready to feature his long-awaited rematch with Strickland.

At this time, it's unclear if the company plans to continue with the program when he eventually returns.

Although the feud between Lee and Strickland is unresolved, Strickland has moved on to another big storyline. He is in the mix to compete for the AEW World Championship and is involved in a feud with "Hangman" Adam Page.

On the January 10 episode of AEW Dynamite, Strickland shared his intentions to challenge for the world title before Page interrupted him. AEW may have another match planned between Page and Strickland as they look to end their rivalry. While it's unclear if Strickland will get another win and move on to challenge for the championship, AEW seems to have plans for him.

Lee's primary focus for the foreseeable future will be to recover from injuries. If he can return fully healthy, he can build momentum again, and the company can restart his feud with Strickland.

Although the timing of the injuries is unlucky, AEW fans will support Lee and look forward to him returning to the ring at 100 percent.