On SmackDown on March 11, 2022, Ridge Holland sent Big E an overhead belly-to-belly suplex, sending the former WWE Champion dangerously down on his head. This move stunned the wrestling world. Big E was clearly hurt in the immediate aftermath, thus Kofi Kingston and Sheamus had to finish the tag bout without him.
Following the incident, Big E disclosed the extent of his injuries, revealing that he had suffered a broken neck. He has now announced on X (formerly known as Twitter) that he has not received medical clearance to return to the ring and may never get it, following a two-year review. Even with this disappointing news, Big E was thankful that he was pain-free and that his general health had not declined.
In his own words, he bravely shares an update on his health journey, revealing the results of his recent neck scans after two years. Despite the passage of time, there’s a sobering realization that little has changed – while his C1 vertebra has fibrously healed, there’s been no new bone growth. The stark reality sets in as he acknowledges the uncertainty looming over his medical clearance, hinting at the possibility that it may never come.
Former WWE Champion Big E Shares Heartbreaking Newshttps://t.co/ZZcEsA4c5j
— Web Is Jericho (@WebIsJericho) April 13, 2024
Yet, amidst the shadows of uncertainty, he finds solace in his current state – free from pain, filled with joy, and enjoying a sense of overall well-being. Embracing the present moment, he affirms that life is indeed good, a poignant reminder of resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity.
After the event, some fans blamed Ridge Holland, saying that he was to blame for Big E’s career perhaps ending. Big E, nevertheless, has asked supporters to have mercy on Holland, stressing that the wrestler felt a great deal of regret for the unforeseen repercussions of his actions. Holland was harassed on X even after Big E begged for forgiveness; this was especially true following another incident in which Elton Prince was hurt in the ring, which led Holland to briefly delete his account.
The incident stands as a poignant testament to the inherent physical risks entwined with the intense sport of wrestling, shedding light on the profound toll it can exact on its athletes. It underscores the sobering reminder of the fragility of the human body amidst the demanding rigors of professional wrestling.
Moreover, it serves as a rallying cry for compassion and empathy within the wrestling community, urging fans, athletes, and organizers alike to prioritize the well-being and safety of those who dedicate themselves to the sport they love. This somber episode amplifies the ongoing discourse surrounding wrestler welfare, particularly poignant in light of the uncertain future facing Big E, a revered figure whose journey embodies both triumph and adversity within the ring.
Sarah’s View:
In a thrilling scene from SmackDown, Big E was hurt by a maneuver from Ridge Holland that revealed a broken neck. Big E valiantly provides his health report despite the setback, admitting that there is still an uncertain journey ahead. Despite the lack of change in his scans, he finds comfort in not having any discomfort and in appreciating the small pleasures in life. Fans continue to place the responsibility on Holland, but Big E acknowledges his regret and asks for forgiveness. The event highlights the dangers of wrestling and calls for caution and safety precautions. It serves as a depressing reminder of the frailty of the human body in an arduous sport and ignites important discussions about wrestler welfare and the need for group support within the wrestling community.
