WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler Suffers 'Minor' Stroke, Released From Hospital
The 75-year-old former commentator has been cleared to return home after a stroke that affected his right side and vision; several appearances have been canceled while he rests.
WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler, 75, suffered a "minor" stroke Friday at his home in Fort Myers, Fla., and has been released from the hospital and cleared to return to his home in Memphis, his caregiver told Memphis Fox13.
The caregiver said the stroke affected Lawler's right side and slightly impaired his vision, but that he is able to speak and walk. The caregiver told Fox13 and later spoke to TMZ — which identified the caregiver as Lawler’s ex-fiancée — that the plan is for Lawler to rest for several weeks. Several upcoming appearances were canceled, including this weekend’s HorrorHound event in Cincinnati. "We received word that, due to some personal matters, Jerry Lawler is unable to get to Cincinnati this weekend," the event posted on Facebook. "The King hopes to make up the appearance in 2026."
The latest episode adds to a series of serious health problems Lawler has faced over the past decade. He suffered a stroke in March 2018 and was diagnosed with a brain hemorrhage that required intensive care. In 2023, Lawler was hospitalized after what was described publicly as a "massive stroke," and his speech was reported as limited during recovery. In 2012, he experienced cardiac arrest while performing commentary on WWE's Raw.
Lawler, known as "The King" for his long career in regional wrestling circuits and national prominence with WWE (formerly WWF), transitioned from in-ring competition to a high-profile commentary role. He worked alongside longtime play-by-play announcer Jim Ross on Raw, SmackDown and pay-per-view events for more than three decades. WWE did not renew his full-time commentary contract last year; Lawler told the WrestleBinge podcast in October that his health, including multiple strokes, had affected his voice and contributed to the decision. He said he remains with the company on a legends agreement.
Medical experts say stroke symptoms can vary depending on the area of the brain affected and that early treatment and rehabilitation can improve outcomes. Right-sided weakness and visual disturbances, as reported in Lawler's case, are consistent with strokes that impact specific brain regions. Recovery timelines differ widely based on the stroke type, severity and the patient's overall health.
Lawler's public cancellations and the caregiver's statement indicate he will pause public engagements while he recuperates. Promoters and event organizers have updated schedules and announcements following the hospitalization, and Lawler's representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Jerry Lawler rose to fame in the territorial wrestling era, particularly in Tennessee, before joining the national stage. Alongside his in-ring success, he became a familiar television voice and personality for wrestling audiences. His decades-long presence in the business has included Hall of Fame recognition and recurring appearances at fan conventions and nostalgia events.
As Lawler begins a period of rest and recovery, his condition will likely be monitored by medical professionals and caregivers. Further updates on his health and scheduled appearances will depend on his rehabilitation progress and medical advice.