Overview
- Flair told Men's Health she remains in a company-required DonJoy knee brace, customized with crystals, and views competing without it as her next step.
- She recalled a "meltdown" during the December 8, 2023 SmackDown match with Asuka, saying she hurt the knee three times, finished the bout, then could not walk.
- The injury involved torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus, required surgery, and kept her out for over a year despite early nine-month estimates.
- She returned at the February 1, 2025 Women's Royal Rumble wearing the brace, won the match, and secured a WrestleMania 41 championship opportunity.
- Flair said she does not know WWE's plans for her in 2026 and is prioritizing development as a performer, adding the layoff gave her more hunger to compete.