Ric Flair In Medically Induced Coma, Preparing For Surgery
Ric Flair is in a medically induced coma and is preparing for surgery, a representative from WWE told TMZ Sports.
As previously reported, Flair, 68, was admitted to an Intensive Care Unit in Atlanta, GA on Saturday and the situation has worsened. It's unknown at press time what procedure he's having but that it's happening "momentarily."
It was learned over the weekend (via Pro Wrestling Sheet) that Flair was hospitalized for heart-related issues. His manager, Melinda Morris Zanoni of Legacy Talent and Entertainment, originally indicated it was for routine monitoring and stated there was no reason to panic. Her tone changed when she asked for prayers and positive energy for the Hall of Famer.
PWInsider.com pointed out that while there is no confirmation on Flair's exact issues, it was written in his To Be The Man autobiography that he suffers from Alcoholic cardiomyopathy. The condition is a result of prolonged alcohol abuse and can result in heart failure. The effects of the alcohol damage the myocardium where it is unable to efficiently pump blood.
Head WWE producer Michael Hayes visited Flair on Sunday prior to flying to Boston for RAW and tweeted, "I saw @RicFlairNatrBoy before I flew to Boston yesterday I can assure that he needs everyone's prayers and positive vibes. Thx in advance!!"
August 14, 2017 4:30 PM ET Update: We have the latest here at WrestlingINC.com.