Ric Flair Shares He Is Cancer Free Following Surgery

WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair announced this week that he is now cancer free following surgery for skin cancer. The former 16-time world champion posted on X last week, “Thank you Academic Alliance in Dermatology! I’m now cancer free! WOOOOO!” Flair shared a photo with bandages on his forehead and arm. 

Thank You Academic Alliance In Dermatology! I’m Now Cancer Free! WOOOOO! pic.twitter.com/4cmV0FVsVR

— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) July 22, 2025

Flair first revealed his diagnosis in June, posting, “melanoma, I have found out, is nothing to play with.” 

Understanding Melanoma 

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It makes up only about 1% of all skin cancers in the United States but causes the majority of skin cancer deaths. The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 105,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in 2025. 

When detected early, melanoma is highly treatable. The five-year survival rate is more than 99% if the cancer is found before it spreads. That rate drops to about 35% if it spreads to distant organs. 

Florida’s High Risk 

Florida has one of the highest rates of UV-related melanoma in the country. Studies have found that 91% of melanoma cases diagnosed in the United States between 2011 and 2015 were linked to ultraviolet radiation. Florida ranked second in the nation for UV-related melanoma, with 29.2 cases per 100,000 people. 

Vernon Sondak, MD

Exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds is the most preventable risk factor for melanoma. 

“Sun protection starts with proper clothing: long sleeves and broad-brimmed hats,” said Vernon Sondak, MD, chair of the Cutaneous Oncology Department at Moffitt Cancer Center, adding that simply wearing a baseball cap is not enough. “Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes and applying sunblock to any exposed skin is also important.”  

Moffitt’s Approach 

Moffitt’s Donald A. Adam Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center of Excellence offers specialized care for patients with melanoma and other complex skin cancers. Patients have access to dermatopathology services, surgical care and clinical trials through a team-based, individualized approach. 

Moffitt researchers continue to lead efforts in melanoma treatment. In 2024, the FDA approved lifileucel, a form of immunotherapy called tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy for advanced melanoma, supported in part by Moffitt-led research. 

The one-time T-cell therapy infusion uses a patient’s own immune cells to fight their cancer. It was the first FDA approval of a cell therapy for solid tumors. 

The Importance of Skin Checks 

Flair’s announcement is a reminder of the importance of regular skin checks and early detection. People with a history of sun exposure, fair skin or prior skin cancers should schedule routine dermatology visits. Knowing the ABCDEs of melanoma — asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolving — can help catch concerning moles or lesions early. 

“Early detection is the best way to maximize your chance of cure from any form of skin cancer,” Sondak said. “Be smart in the sun and pay attention to your skin. If you have a mole that is changing, a sore that isn’t healing or a new lump or bump on or right under your skin, get it checked out right away.”