El Desperado misses Super Jr. Tag League 2026 due to spinal conditions
Spinal Canal Stenosis Forces El Desperado Out of Tag League
In a comment video, a bed-bound El Desperado explained that pain and numbness make it difficult to stand, walk, or sit for long periods.
Wrestler El Desperado will miss all events of SUPER Jr. TAG LEAGUE 2026 due to spinal canal stenosis and lumbar disc herniation, New Japan Pro-Wrestling announced on the 22nd.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling Announces Replacement Partner
New Japan Pro-Wrestling announced the withdrawal on its official website, stating that El Desperado cannot compete due to the concurrent medical conditions. The promotion apologized to fans who anticipated his matches in the upcoming league.
El Desperado Withdraws From NJPW Super Jr. Tag League Due To Spinal Stenosis & Hernia https://t.co/mwOHto3fRK
Following a recommendation from El Desperado, tournament organizers named Kosei Yasuda as the replacement partner for Mistico. The promotion stated that match cards and bout orders for the SUPER Jr. TAG LEAGUE 2026 will change as a result, with revised fixtures announced at a later date.
El Desperado Explains Physical Limitations to Fans
In a video published on the promotion’s official YouTube channel, El Desperado appeared lying on a bed to explain his condition directly to fans. He apologized for his absence while describing severe physical limitations.
El Desperado has withdrawn from Super Jr. Tag League due to injury, and has enlisted Masatora Yasuda as his replacement. Details, and full statement from Desperado:https://t.co/tHYTa6wXgy#njpw #njsjtl pic.twitter.com/vAFcAmof8z
Months of Worsening Symptoms Culminate in Withdrawal
The wrestler stated that his left leg is completely non-functional, with pain and numbness preventing him from standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods. Symptoms began with leg numbness in March, escalated to pain around June, and intensified over the final two months to wake him by 4:00 AM despite resting. He noted that he required painkillers with every meal just to manage daily life before the physical breakdown forced him to withdraw.