Fred Ottman, better known to professional wrestling fans as Typhoon, Tugboat, and The Shockmaster, told fans on Sunday, Feb. 8, that he recently survived a near-death experience.
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The 69-year-old 2025 WWE Hall of Fame inductee said on Instagram that he has been bedridden after his gallbladder ruptured. The health incident nearly killed him.
"If I would have waited one more day," Ottman said, "the doctors told my wife I probably wouldn't be here with you, talking to you guys."
Typhoon Wanted To Let Fans Know Why He's Been "Off the Map"
Ottman has been a mainstay at wrestling events and conventions since he retired in 2001. However, fans of Typhoon were becoming concerned after not seeing posts on social media for several weeks.
"I've been in the hospital for about 30 days. I've been off the map," he explained. "Just wanted to let you all know that I didn't fall off the planet."
"I'm ok. I had something happen," he explained. "I've kept it on the downlow... You know how the internet is."
"Unfortunately, my gallbladder exploded inside of me, and it released a bunch of poison into my body," Ottman shared. "I've been on my back for about 30 days... I had a major infection."
Ottman Says He's "Still Here"
The former wrestler then shared some details about his recovery.
"I'm still here," Ottman declared. "I lost a lot of muscle mass. It's been a brutal fight. I've been learning how to walk again."
Typhoon, who was part of the tag team The Natural Disasters with Earthquake, says his recovery has been rough. However, he had some good news to share. The doctors plan to discharge him today, Feb. 9. This will allow him to rehabilitate at home.
He says he will be leaning heavily on those closest to him to help him get through his recent health scare."
"Thank God, I've got a good wife. I've got great friends," said Ottman. "My wrestling buddies are just amazing."
This news comes months after wrestling legend Hulk Hogan died at the age of 71 after complications with his heart at his home in Clearwater, Florida.
