Ric Flair built a legendary career on charisma, confidence, and unmatched endurancebut behind the glitz, The Nature Boy was privately battling something far more serious.
Speaking on Busted Open Masters Class, Flair revealed he suffered from agoraphobia, a condition that made even leaving his hotel room feel impossible. I had agoraphobia. I would get it, and its when youre afraid to leave the room, Flair explained. I used to have to drive to the airport, and Im biting myself because I couldnt feel my fingers. Id be in the ring and I couldnt feel my hands. Anxiety is brutal.
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that creates overwhelming fear of situations where escape might be difficultor where help may not be available if panic symptoms strike. For Flair, that fear didnt just haunt him in everyday lifeit followed him straight into the ring.
The fact that Flair was performing at the highest level while enduring this kind of mental and physical toll adds another layer to his already storied legacy. His vulnerability sheds light on how many wrestlers silently battle mental health issues while keeping the show going.
Does Ric Flairs story change how you view the struggles behind the spotlight? Drop your thoughts in the comments and tell us how wrestling should support stars dealing with mental health.
