What is a Lisfranc fracture? AJ Styles' real-life injury and potential WWE return date explained

AJ Styles made his highly anticipated return on the October 4, 2024, episode of WWE SmackDown. However, his homecoming took a devastating turn when he became a victim of a real-life injury right away. During his match against Carmelo Hayes on the show, The Phenomenal One sustained a Lisfranc fracture, due to which he was seen leaving the building in crutches.

A Lisfranc fracture is a type of injury that affects the mid-foot region, especially the Lisfranc joint complex, which is located between the hindfoot and the forefoot. It often causes a tear in the ligaments of the mid-foot, causing excruciating pain. Considering the severity of the pain, Styles may have suffered the same fate that caused him to abruptly stop his match.

Currently, there are no updates about his medical condition or current status. However, the treatment of Lisfranc fracture varies depending on the severity of the injury. While a non-surgical treatment requires six to eight weeks of rest with a removable cast or boot, a surgical treatment often requires three to five months of rehabilitation.

Therefore, there is a good possibility that AJ Styles could be away from WWE for at least two to three months to recover from his Lisfranc fracture. The 47-year-old star could return to the company next year, around January. There are high chances that WWE could also bring back Styles at the 2025 Royal Rumble in order to give him ample time to recuperate.

With The Phenomenal One seemingly in the final days of his pro wrestling career, an injury at this point is very unfortunate. It will be interesting to see whether WWE provides any official update on his return timeline.

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Was AJ Styles all set to embark on a retirement tour before his injury?

AJ Styles is one of the most decorated superstars in the pro wrestling industry. However, it looks like his in-ring career is seemingly nearing its final days, as Styles has been discussing his retirement plans of late. He reportedly had major plans before suffering the injury.

According to recent reports, The Phenomenal One was determined to set out on a farewell tour on SmackDown upon his return. With his contract reportedly set to expire by the beginning of next year, WWE seemingly had plans to showcase a storyline where AJ Styles would embark on his final stint.

However, things took a shocking turn on SmackDown, with Styles sustaining a Lisfranc fracture injury. This might keep him away from WWE for quite some time. There is a good possibility that the 47-year-old star could come back to WWE for one final run following his recovery.

It will be interesting to see how things shape up in the coming weeks. Will fans have to wait till 2025 to witness AJ Styles, or will he make a shocking return by the end of this year? Only time will tell.