All Elite Wrestling’s Michael Nakazawa was recently interviewed by Sportskeeda about his time in the promotion and his role both in-ring and backstage.
Reflecting on how he became involved with AEW, Nakazawa admitted he thought his days competing in-ring were over before he was contacted by Kenny Omega.
“We met when Kenny had just moved to Japan, I was the only person who could speak in English,” Nakazawa recalled. “And so, we used to talk and hang out a lot. But it wasn’t just because I could speak in English. We used to get along right from the start. We still do, to this day.”
Although he has only appeared a few times for AEW, Nakazawa divulged he is busier with his backstage duties. His role sees him assisting Omega and helping the Japanese talent.
When it comes to his in-ring work, Nakazawa tends to incorporate a substantial comedic element into his matches. He confessed he would never be a Kenny Omega or Kota Ibushi, but does his best and enjoys what he can bring to a show.
“I was very happy, I could work in the US, which is what I always wanted to do, I could work with my friends, and help in any way to make a difference. I’m not Kenny Omega or Ibushi, but I do my best,” he said. “I know those two wrestle at a different level.”
Addressing their head-to-head Wednesday night competitors, Nakazawa stressed that, although they acknowledge NXT as competition, AEW is more focused on putting out the best show possible every week.