Dustin Rhodes Says World Title Dream Still Alive Ahead of AEW Return

Dustin Rhodes says he’s not done chasing the one goal that has eluded him throughout his career: a world championship. The AEW veteran, sidelined for nearly a year following double knee surgery, posted a lengthy message on Instagram reflecting on his career and previewing what he’s calling his “One Last Ride.”

Rhodes thanked fans for sticking with him and made clear that his in-ring standards haven’t slipped despite the long layoff. “I promise to continue my in ring work to be as hard as ever. Knowing that my legacy is in tact, I feel I still have plenty to prove,” he wrote.

The most notable part of his message centered on unfinished business. Rhodes revealed that becoming a world champion was his original goal when he broke into the business, and he still believes it’s within reach. “My number 1 goal when I started this journey, was to be a World Champion. I don’t think its too late for me, because I am damn good at what I do and will continue to strive for that. Do you think its in me to be world champ? I DO!” he wrote, adding a playful nod to the fact that his “One Last Ride” has technically been going on for seven years.

Rhodes hasn’t competed since a brutal Chicago Street Fight against Kyle Fletcher on the July 31, 2025 episode of AEW Collision. That match led to double knee surgery, and he’s spent the months since rehabbing while also staying involved in coaching duties at the Rhodes Wrestling Academy. He recently indicated that he’s hoping to get medical clearance soon and get back in the ring.

Given his age and the physical toll of his career, a world title run at this stage would be a long shot by any conventional measure. But Rhodes has never been shy about defying expectations, and he made clear in his message that he has no intention of walking away without one more shot at gold. He closed his post by teasing that a return is coming soon, telling fans to “stay tuned for the Dustin Rhodes you all love.”