Carlos Santiago Espada, better known as Konnan, a legendary figure in AAA wrestling, is now fighting the toughest match of his life. In March 2026, it was revealed that Konnan had lost one leg due to complications from a chronic illness. As of June 8, 2026, it has been confirmed that he underwent amputation of his second leg as well.

The news came from Vince Russo, former WWE writer, who shared on the podcast *Coach and Bro* that Konnan’s health had worsened: “I knew one leg was amputated, but the other was still in question. That was the last time I spoke with him, about two months ago. They had to amputate the second leg.” Russo added that when he called Konnan the day before the podcast, the wrestler was very weak and undergoing exhausting rehabilitation.

Despite the severity of his condition, Konnan expressed gratitude toward WWE, which covered all his medical bills, even though he worked with them only briefly.

Konnan’s longtime friend and commentator Hugo Savinovich described the situation as “too sad” during his June 9 program *Lucha Libre Online*. He also shared that Konnan was surprised his health issues became public but remains a “warrior who doesn’t give up.”

Konnan’s health struggles have been ongoing for years, deeply intertwined with his wrestling career. He has battled kidney failure, which led to a kidney transplant in 2007. The damage was linked to years of pain medication use from wrestling injuries. Even after the transplant, complications persisted, causing multiple hospitalizations.

In 2021, Konnan was hospitalized in the U.S. with kidney problems and tested positive for COVID-19. He described that period as life-threatening, saying in an interview with *Al Destape Podcast*: “COVID-19 almost killed me… it destroyed my kidneys, and since then I’ve needed another transplant.” He also shared the emotional toll of isolation during his hospital stay, fearing he might die alone.

Beyond kidney issues and COVID-19 effects, Konnan has undergone several orthopedic surgeries, including a hip operation in 2018, and was hospitalized for diverticulitis in 2024. His medical history also includes infections and chronic fatigue linked to his kidney disease and the physical toll of professional wrestling.

Konnan’s story is a powerful reminder of the hidden costs behind the spectacle of wrestling and the resilience required to face life’s toughest battles. For many in the Mexican and immigrant communities who admire his career, his journey underscores the importance of accessible healthcare and support systems for those facing chronic illness.