R-Truth posts X update saying he is fine after SmackDown injury
R-Truth said on X on October 19 that he was doing fine after suffering an injury during his singles match with Damian Priest on the October 16 episode of SmackDown, and he thanked fans for their support while saying he plans to return to the ring.
R-Truth and Damian Priest formed a partnership that led to them winning the WWE Tag Team Championship in March 2026; they held those titles for 147 days before losing to Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga in August. Their alliance collapsed after they failed to capture the AAA World Tag Team Championship from the War Raiders on SmackDown in September, when Priest turned on Truth and set up a personal rivalry. The two met in singles competition on the October 16 SmackDown episode, the match that ended abruptly after the in-ring incident. Earlier reports said the star would undergo further evaluation following the stoppage.
During the October 16 contest Priest appeared to have the upper hand before the match finished suddenly after Truth delivered a top-rope dropkick and remained on the mat. The referee checked on Priest prior to calling off the match, an action that prompted debate among viewers about whether the injury was genuine. Following the match it was reported that Truth would undergo additional medical assessment to determine the extent of the problem. No medical findings were provided in those initial reports.
On October 19 Truth, 54, took to X to reassure followers that he was okay and to express gratitude for messages of concern. He wrote: "I AM OK, Thank you ALL for your support, concerns and get well wishes , Wow, It truly feels amazing to feel and be loved I'm grateful for you all." He also posted: "…On 10/16/2026 I almost passed away… Damien Priest tried to kill me,, I didn't think he was ThAt serious…But ok, l'll be…" and added that he would attempt the missile dropkick again.
The October 19 update did not specify the type or severity of Truth's injury and did not state a timetable for a return to in-ring action. The post provided reassurance to fans but left open the need for formal medical clearance before he can resume wrestling. The report noted that the next step for Truth is to complete his medical examination and receive clearance to compete.
Truth previously suffered a torn quadriceps in 2023 that required surgery and was followed by an infection, an issue that kept him sidelined for an extended period. The article suggested WWE could base further storytelling on the partners-turned-rivals history between Truth and Priest, noting that their past championship win provides a personal connection for a feud and that Truth's blend of humour and experience suits both singles and tag scenarios.
WWE has not announced an official return date for R-Truth and he remains to be medically cleared; Truth confirmed he is 'doing ok' and indicated he will be back soon.