Fred Ottman is taking time to recover after multiple eye surgeries, with the WWE Hall of Famer confirming he will miss an upcoming appearance.

The 70-year-old, known to wrestling fans as Typhoon, Tugboat and The Shockmaster, had been scheduled for 80s Wrestling Con in Parsippany, New Jersey, on October 31. However, he is currently unable to fly as he continues his recovery.

In a Facebook video, Ottman explained the situation and shared his disappointment at missing the chance to meet fans.

“Coming at you with some sad news: October 31, I was scheduled at 80s Con up north, and unfortunately I’ve had multiple surgeries on my eyes and I will not be able to fly for a while, on top of some other stuff,” Ottman said.

“And I still got some other things, irons in the fire, so to speak. It’s more than just these cool geriatric shades that I’m wearing here to help with the light right now. But I wanted to let everybody know that I’m sad that I won’t be able to attend. Hopefully everything will be finished up and better on down the road. So, I love ya, just giving you the heads up.”

The update follows a brief hospital stay in September. After returning home, Ottman said he was feeling better, although doctors were still investigating some health concerns. He chose to keep the details private.

It has been a difficult year for the wrestling veteran. Earlier in 2026, he suffered a medical emergency when his gallbladder “exploded”, releasing poison into his body.

Ottman and his late tag team partner, John Tenta, better known as Earthquake, were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as The Natural Disasters in 2025. The duo held the WWE Tag Team Championship in 1992.

Everyone at WNS wishes Ottman well as he continues his recovery.