Disappointing news for Adam Cole fans

A disappointing update has emerged regarding top AEW star Adam Cole. The Panama City Playboy has been on the shelf since suffering an ankle injury last year during his former friend MJF's AEW World Championship defense against Samoa Joe.

Cole has consistently appeared on television despite the injury and is currently the leader of The Undisputed Kingdom. The 34-year-old star displayed signs of recuperation by standing on his feet and joining his stablemate Roderick Strong after the latter's successful International Championship defense at AEW Dynasty 2024. However, a recent update indicates that it may be some time before he can make his in-ring comeback.

During an interview with Shakiel Mahjouri of CBS Sports, Tony Khan revealed that Cole was recovering, although he was not yet at a hundred percent. The President of AEW praised the Pennsylvania native for his role during his time in the promotion so far.

Alluding to his return from injury in 2023, Khan addressed Cole's rehabilitation and stated that he and the former ROH World Champion wanted the latter to soon step back into the squared circle.

"He's not 100% but he's getting better and better," Khan said. "I think that's great news for AEW. We love Adam Cole and the fans love Adam Cole. He's been a big part of the company now for almost three years of our five-year journey. It's crazy to think Adam Cole, a year ago at this time, really felt like he was getting towards the top of the wrestling world. I would love to get Adam Cole back in the ring and he works so hard on his rehab. He really wants to get back in the ring. I think that would be a great thing for AEW." [H/T Fightful]

Adam Cole was confronted by MJF at Double or Nothing 2024

After Roderick Strong lost the AEW International Title to Will Ospreay at Double or Nothing 2024, Adam Cole made his way to the ring to address the crowd in the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The former NXT Champion disrespected the live audience and spoke about facing disrespect from fans despite the recent career pitfalls he had overcome.

Cole also produced the Devil mask, which was a key prop for his program with MJF last year, and promised to return to the ring stronger than ever after rehabilitating his ankle. However, he was interrupted by the shocking return of Maxwell Jacob Friedman, who made his first appearance on AEW programming after losing his title to Samoa Joe at Worlds End 2023.

Cole tried to placate The Salt of the Earth, but the latter feigned reconciliation before hitting his former tag partner with a low blow.

It remains to be seen where the feud between Cole and MJF leads in AEW going forward.