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According to a report from PWInsider.com, WWE announcer and Hall of Famer Jerry "The King" Lawler marked the passing of the new year in the hospital.
Mike Johnson says that Lawler has been receiving in-patient treatment for diverticulitis over the past several days, and is expected to remain in hospital for several more.
Many wrestling and combat sports fans are familiar with diverticulitis as the ailment that caused Brock Lesnar to have a section of his colon removed and contributed to his exit from UFC several years ago. The diagnosis of infected intestinal pouches can be treated with anything ranging from antibiotics and a high-fiber diet to surgery. The cause of the condition is unknown, but is believed to be related to constipation and other bowel pressure. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, vomiting and diarrhea.
While it's somewhat reassuring that his hospitalization isn't related to the heart issues he famously had on the air during Raw in 2012, this sounds serious nonetheless. We'll bring you more as we have it, and please join us in wishing The King a speedy recovery.