After six years together, professional wrestling legend Ric Flair has announced the end of his marriage to Wendy Barlow, his fifth wife.
Fox News reported that the 75-year-old wrestling icon posted a statement on his Instagram account announcing his separation. The couple had been together for 13 years, including six years of marriage.
In his statement, Flair expressed gratitude towards Barlow for her unwavering support during his health crisis in 2017. He acknowledged the ups and downs they experienced as a couple and emphasized that the decision to part ways was made respectfully.
Flair's marriage to Barlow was his fifth attempt at matrimony. The wrestling superstar has had a complex marital history, with previous marriages to Leslie Goodman, Elizabeth Harrell, Tiffany VanDemark, and Jaqueline Beems.
This latest separation is not the first time Flair and Barlow have faced marital difficulties. In January 2022, they briefly separated before reconciling. However, this time, the split appears to be more definitive.
Flair has four children from his previous marriages - two with Goodman and two with Harrell. This aspect of his personal life underscores the complexities of balancing family relationships in the public eye.
Despite his personal challenges, Flair has remained active in the wrestling world. In 2022, he participated in what was billed as his "Last Match," a tag-team event featuring his son-in-law, Andrade. The match was notable for its billing and Flair's revelation that he passed out twice during the event.
Flair's involvement in wrestling didn't end there. He made his debut with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2023, briefly participating in Sting's final professional match at AEW Revolution. This appearance showcased Flair's enduring appeal and connection to the wrestling community.
However, reports suggest that Flair's association with AEW was short-lived, with him reportedly parting ways with the organization in July of the same year. This move indicates the ever-changing nature of professional wrestling alliances and career trajectories.
In his statement about the separation, Flair offered insight into the challenges of maintaining a relationship amid busy schedules. He stated:
We are working on different projects at the current time & it becomes difficult with my schedule & her schedule to make this work.
Flair also expressed his support for Barlow's future endeavors, wishing her luck with her projects. This gracious approach to the separation suggests mutual respect between the two despite the end of their romantic relationship.
The wrestling legend's openness about his personal life and challenges reflects a trend of increased transparency among public figures. It allows fans to see beyond the in-ring persona and understand the human aspects of their favorite stars.
Ric Flair, at 75, continues to navigate the complexities of personal relationships while maintaining his status as a wrestling icon. His separation from his fifth wife, Wendy Barlow, marks another chapter in his eventful life. Despite personal challenges, Flair remains connected to the wrestling world, having participated in high-profile matches and made appearances with major wrestling organizations in recent years.
