Buddy Matthews cleared to return to AEW after long injury layoff

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AEW star Buddy Matthews has been out of action for nearly 18 months due to a devastating ankle injury he suffered at Grand Slam Australia in February 2025. Last month, Matthews used his social media to tease his upcoming return to the ring. Today, on the same day that his life partner Rhea Ripley revealed her own injury news, Matthews posted the following video that leaves no doubt about his status. After going through some dark times and learning how to walk again, Buddy Matthews is now medically cleared. View this post on Instagram Matthews follows up on the news that he is ready to return by saying he has a lot of built up rage to unleash: “I’m cleared, and you should be scared.” I’d probably be more afraid if his ring name wasn’t Buddy. I kid, I kid. A lot has changed in AEW since we last saw Buddy Matthews in action roughly 18 months ago. Where do you think he fits into the picture now that he is cleared to return? Let me know in the comments below, Cagesiders.