Report: Tony Khan Personally Visits Kota Ibushi After Surgery — Storyline Plans, and More
AEW President Tony Khan surprised fans — and even Kota Ibushi himself — by making a rare personal visit to the hospital following Ibushi’s successful leg surgery this week.
The 43-year-old Japanese icon suffered a broken femur during his match against Josh Alexander at the AEW Collision taping last Wednesday in Jacksonville, Florida. The injury occurred when Alexander lost his footing while attempting a top-rope move, sending Ibushi crashing awkwardly toward the barricade.
The brutal moment aired as part of Saturday’s broadcast, and AEW used it to further ongoing storylines. After the fall, Kenny Omega ran off Alexander and Mark Davis of the Don Callis Family, then appeared later in the show to discuss the incident with Jack Perry, tying it into Perry’s redemption arc.
While the injury was real and devastating, it’s clear AEW intends to honor Ibushi’s fighting spirit both on-screen and off. Following the surgery, Tony Khan stopped by the hospital to visit Ibushi — something the Golden Star himself didn’t see coming.
Ibushi shared the heartfelt encounter on Instagram, writing in Japanese (translated to English):
“Finally, he came in person this time! Everyone was surprised that the big boss came alone, and I was the one who was surprised. He doesn’t usually show up like this, so why is he doing all this? I feel bad for Tony, but we’re both born in 1982!! Maybe there’s something in common between us. No, maybe not. No. I’ll be honest — he’s a wreck.”
Khan also left a note for Ibushi, which read in part:
“I wish you all the best in your recovery. Everyone in AEW respects you so much. Thank you, God bless you, Mr. Kota Ibushi.”
There’s no official timetable for Ibushi’s recovery, but given his history of defying odds — from concussions to shoulder injuries — it’s safe to say the Golden Star will do everything possible to return to the ring.
🗣️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
Sources within AEW described Khan’s hospital visit as “completely genuine,” emphasizing that it wasn’t for PR or storyline — just pure respect. Those close to the situation say Khan views Ibushi as “a once-in-a-generation performer” and wanted to personally thank him for his effort and loyalty. AEW plans to acknowledge the injury on-air, possibly tying it into Omega’s feud with the Don Callis Family.
