$Mycobacterium$ $abscessus$ belongs to a group of rapidly growing mycobacteria (RGM) that cause a broad spectrum of infections in humans. In addition, the association of $M.$ $abscessus$ with the cause of community- and hospital-acquired infections has been recently reported. In fact, $M.$ $abscessus$ is known to be the most drug-resistant mycobacterium and naturally resistant to first-line anti-tuberculous drugs, resulting in the limited therapeutic options and a high failure rate of treatment response. Three closely related species; $M.$ $abscessus$ ($sensu$ $stricto$), $M.$ $bolletii$, and $M.$ $massiliense$ are currently identified however, consensus on the naming of $M.$ $abscessus$-related species has not been made to date. We herein discuss the advanced understanding of the virulence potentials and pathophysiological features of $M.$ $abscessus$ to establish novel therapeutic strategies for $M.$ $abscessus$ infection.