“I Still Have One More Match”: Jerry “The King” Lawler’s Chilling Desire to Return at 76

It may take far more than serious illness to silence The King.

At 76 years old, Jerry “The King” Lawler has once again sparked shock and concern across the wrestling world after hinting that he still hasn’t ruled out an in-ring return—despite enduring three strokes in less than eight years.

The iconic Memphis wrestling legend has battled a long list of serious health issues since stepping away from his in-ring prime, yet the door to one final match remains, in his own words, slightly open. While many fans admire his resilience, others—including some of Lawler’s closest friends—have expressed growing concern over the risks involved.

During a Christmas-period interview with Action News 5, Lawler spoke with a wide smile and unwavering conviction.

“I have not put it out of my mind,” he said.“I have one more match in there somewhere.”

Those words landed with chilling weight, coming just months after Lawler reportedly suffered his third stroke late last year.

A History of Health Battles

Lawler’s medical struggles are well documented. After suffering strokes in 2018 and 2023, TMZ reported that he was again hospitalized in September after falling ill at home.The cumulative toll has been significant—Lawler has been left colorblind, and has worked tirelessly to overcome speech and mobility issues.

Despite these challenges, The King made a determined return to public life toward the end of 2025, resuming appearances on the autograph and wrestling convention circuit—an effort that only reinforced his unbreakable connection with fans.

Veteran wrestling fans also vividly remember Lawler’s terrifying on-air heart attack in 2012, which occurred during a live episode of Monday Night Raw. Sitting beside longtime broadcast partner Michael Cole, Lawler collapsed at the commentary desk in one of the most shocking moments in WWE television history.

Legacy vs. Reality

Jerry Lawler’s passion for wrestling has never been in question. His refusal to completely close the book on his in-ring career speaks to a lifetime defined by the business. Yet, as admiration mixes with anxiety, fans are left hoping that The King’s legacy remains one of greatness—rather than one defined by unnecessary risk.

Whether Lawler’s words represent genuine intent or simply the heart of a lifelong performer unwilling to let go, one thing remains clear: even at 76, Jerry “The King” Lawler still believes there is unfinished business left inside the ring.