AEW pulled Will Ospreay in after making a big deal to secure his services. It seems that WWE was also in the running to get him, but AEW simply tried a lot harder, and now he is All Elite. This move might not have left a ton of happiness within in WWE.

Triple H is believed to have not realized Will Ospreay’s potential, and he didn’t lock him down with a contract. According to Dave Meltzer, there are some unhappy WWE Superstars due to the fact that The Game let Ospreay go to AEW.

The Set-Up For Controversy

Now that Will Ospreay has begun to gain attention in AEW shortly after officially joining the promotion, there is a prevailing sentiment that WWE overlooked an opportunity in not signing him when they expressed interest.

There are apparently individuals within WWE who believe that Triple H presented Ospreay with a less-than-ideal contract offer during their negotiations prior to Ospreay’s decision to sign with All Elite Wrestling last November. We previously reported that there are those who believe that he didn’t appreciate Ospreay’s abilities.

During a discussion on Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer highlighted the perspective held by some within WWE that Ospreay could have been comparable to a younger version of AJ Styles when Styles initially joined the company in 2016. Consequently, there were feelings of disappointment among certain individuals within WWE regarding their failure to secure Ospreay’s services, given the high regard in which they held him.

Meltzer further elaborated on the perception of Ospreay within WWE, suggesting that while some saw him as potentially akin to AJ Styles in terms of talent upon his arrival, there was recognition that Ospreay possessed distinct attributes that set him apart, including a notably stronger charisma.

“AJ when he first came in there, and still now he’s a super talented guy, but the thing with Ospreay, it’s I know people in that company who are very, very high on him, and that were very upset. I don’t say very upset, but upset surely they didn’t get him because they knew he was this good. And they just thought that he’s a guy who can be like a real major player here.”

AEW’s Money Situation

WWE also didn’t jump on getting Mercedes Mone when they were in talks with her. The company did offer her a substantial contract, but it wasn’t enough to beat out Tony Khan.

Tony Khan’s substantial wealth isn’t solely derived from his role as a wrestling promoter. In addition to overseeing a wrestling promotion, he juggles various other endeavors, like his ownership of the Fulham Football Club in London and the Jacksonville Jaguars. It’s worth noting that Tony’s father, Shahid Khan, boasts a net worth of 12.2 billion USD.

AEW has a lot of money, because TK has incredibly deep pockets. Only time will tell when he hits his salary cap, or if that day will ever come for the Land of All Elite. Either way, Will Ospreay is now a heel in AEW, and he’s getting some great exposure with a new audience who may not have followed him for years as others have who know him from NJPW.

SEScoops will have ongoing coverage of this story, and so much more. Keep checking back for the latest updates and headlines that you need.

Will Ospreay is All Elite, and he’s set to have some epic matches for Tony Khan’s company. WWE was in the game to bring Ospreay in, but that didn’t happen. In the end, AEW snagged him, and Triple H missed out.

There is now apparently a feeling within WWE that Triple H kind of dropped the ball with Will Ospreay. Dave Meltzer stated that it is believed that Triple H undervalued what Ospreay could bring to the table.

Will Ospreay in AEW

Will Ospreay made headlines last year at AEW Full Gear, officially joining the AEW roster and shifting gears to a full-time role. Despite potential interest from WWE, Ospreay opted for AEW, a decision that garnered attention from WWE personnel who felt Triple H may have underestimated Ospreay’s worth.

During AEW Full Gear, Ospreay declared his intention to join AEW full-time after fulfilling his commitments with NJPW. This move solidified his status as one of wrestling’s top free agents, culminating in his decision to sign with AEW after weighing options from various companies.

Ospreay’s contributions extend beyond his in-ring performances, as evidenced by his display of personality on AEW television, notably during the recent AEW Dynamite: Big Business episode. 

Dave Meltzer spoke about this on Wrestling Observer Radio, where he shed light on WWE’s perspective, indicating that Ospreay’s promo abilities were overlooked by Triple H during negotiations.

“He’s had two matches on this run and he’s getting this kind of a reaction, so yeah. I think that they, I mean I know people in WWE when this was going down and it was becoming very clear that he was going to AEW instead of WWE. They offered a lot less money, and I know people there who were saying that [Triple H] didn’t realize, he just thought it was one of these great workers, but this guy [Ospreay] has more, as far as complete package, there are very few people when it comes to complete total package.”

What’s Next For Will Ospreay

Will Ospreay joined the Don Callis Family, and that was quite a way to book him in the Land of All Elite. Tony Khan will likely have years to book Ospreay from this point on, so he is only getting started.

Only time will tell if Will Ospreay will ever end up in WWE. At 30 years old, he still has plenty of time to make a decision about his career down the line.

SEScoops will have more on this story, and so much more, as new developments arise. Keep checking back for more updates and headlines that you need.

AEW is adding another pay-per-view to their schedule this year, and April 21st will see a big show in St Louis. Dynasty is coming at fans, and now there is a massive match scheduled for the show.

Bryan Danielson stood up to Will Ospreay during the conclusion of AEW Dynamite this week. It was expected that the two will throw down, and now we know that April 21st is the date in St Louis.

AEW Dynasty Match Gets Booked

Bryan Danielson and Will Ospreay are set to clash in the ring for the first time. During Saturday’s Collision, Ospreay officially issued a challenge to Danielson for a match at AEW Dynasty on April 21 in St. Louis. Danielson promptly accepted, and AEW swiftly confirmed the match.

Danielson secured victory against Shane Taylor in the opening match of Collision when Ospreay made his presence known. Ospreay mentioned that he anticipated Danielson had something to discuss with him after Danielson entered the ring during the conclusion of Dynamite. 

Danielson then informed Ospreay that he’s heard of him being hailed as the best in the world and wants to afford him the opportunity to validate that claim. The legend of Ospreay obviously traveled around the world. Now, he will lock up in St Louis.

Will Ospreay in AEW

Ospreay made his AEW debut at Revolution last weekend, triumphing over Konosuke Takeshita. He followed this with another victory against Kyle Fletcher on AEW Dynamite. Following the latter match, Danielson confronted Ospreay in the ring, setting the stage for their impending clash.

Ospreay turned down WWE interest in order to lock down a deal with AEW. He recently commented that he was a big banged up after his first tour with Tony Khan’s company, but he went home for a little rest.

Like Ospreay, Bryan Danielson also competed at Revolution, where he suffered a defeat to Eddie Kingston. In accordance with the match’s stipulations, Danielson extended his hand to Kingston in a display of sportsmanship following his loss. We will have to see how Danielson vs Ospreay pans out at Dynasty.

SEScoops will have more on this story and many more from all over the pro wrestling word. Keep checking back for more information.

Kenny Omega knows his role in AEW and it’s something that he believes separates him from Will Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada, but will The Cleaner make a return to the ring?

While on his Twitch stream, Omega happened to give an update on his recovery after his diverticulitis diagnosis, something that had him very close to death’s door.

“I would love to say, ‘Hey guys, I’m on track to coming back next week, next month, a half of year.’ I don’t have that confidence this time. When they’re explaining to me that I was 24 hours away from a terrible blood infection and possibly dying, this is like news to me. I’ve never heard of anything like that. ‘I wasn’t close to dying, are you kidding me? No way.’ The doctors are there to ensure my safety and educate me as to how important this is. I don’t want to talk out of my ass too much and say I’m going to for sure be back, and I’ll be back at a certain date or time because I don’t know. I will say, after watching Dynamite, and getting a feel of the lay of the land. If I can come back, I feel like I have to.”

https://twitter.com/puroresuflow/status/1765901475715207217

With the official AEW debuts of Kazuchika Okada and Will Ospreay, the athletic bar has been raised in AEW and Kenny hopes that he’ll still be able to show who runs the show in All Elite Wrestling.

“I used to be that guy. I used to have that confidence, and now instead of being the guy that’s got a chip on his shoulder, it’s my job as the old guard to be the gatekeeper. You want to call yourself the best? F***ing prove it, b****. That’s what I’m here for.”

From a storyline perspective, Kenny Omega isn’t quite “running the show” as fellow EVPs Matthew and Nicholas Jackson have “fired” Kenny from his position this past Wednesday on Dynamite. Kenny caught wind of it and simply used a photo of himself to express his surprise.

Omega has been advertised for AEW’s upcoming residence in Canada, but there is no word as to what he may be doing.

H/t to Fightful for the transcription.

AEW brought in Will Ospreay as a big signing, but he had to wait out his NJPW contract. Now that he is a member of the Don Callis Family on AEW television, he is ready for what is next. That being said, it will take some bumps along the way.

Will Ospreay addressed fans after his first tour with AEW. He is incredibly motivated to keep going, but he is still nursing some issues with his health. After all, his style has never been what anyone would consider easy on his body.

Ospreay Addresses Health Status After First AEW Tour

In a post on Twitter/X, Will Ospreay expressed gratitude as he wrapped up his inaugural tour with AEW. He conveyed appreciation for the warm reception he received and extended thanks to everyone behind the scenes for welcoming him into their environment. 

Despite feeling physically worn out, he emphasized his unwavering dedication. Now, he looks forward to returning home to his family and relishing the rewards of his hard work, reaffirming his belief in AEW.

And thus my first tour under the @AEW banner has come to an end. Thank you so much for such an overwhelming response. To everyone backstage thank you so much for allowing into the home you’ve built, I will cherish this place & treat it as my own. I’m banged up bad but my foot is still on the gas pedal. But now I’m gonna get on this flight home to my beautiful Mrs & step son and enjoy the fruits of my labour. I believe in AEW.

And thus my first tour under the @AEW banner has come to an end.

Thank you so much for such an overwhelming response.
To everyone backstage thank you so much for allowing into the home you’ve built, I will cherish this place & treat it as my own.

I’m banged up bad but my foot… pic.twitter.com/6myWq3vxp9

— Will Ospreay • ????????? (@WillOspreay) March 8, 2024

What’s Next For Ospreay in AEW

Will Ospreay is now a full-time talent for AEW. Tony Khan will likely use him for some big matches in the pipeline, and he already has one huge one in store. Bryan Danielson and Will Ospreay’s face-to-face on AEW Dynamite this week was certainly a sign of things to come.

Ospreay entered AEW as one of the best pro wrestlers on the globe. Now he will get a chance to prove himself in front of a fan base that might be full of people who haven’t seen everything he has in store for them yet.

SEScoops will have continued coverage of this story in case there are any additional updates.

This week’s episode of AEW Collision was an action-packed show as the promotion continued forward following this week’s season premiere of Dynamite. 

AEW Collision was taped following the most recent episode of Dynamite, which served as the season premiere of AEW programming. This marked the debut of a new stage (which marked the return of the tunnels) as well as a new color scheme.

Dynamite saw the debut of Kazuchika Okada who established himself as a heel by attacking Eddie Kingston and aligning himself with the Young Bucks. It had been reported for some time that Okada was going to debut on the show, with Tony Khan promising something huge in the days leading up to Dynamite. 

AEW Collision Spoilers [4/9/2024]

Here are the spoiler results for this week’s AEW Collision:

• The House of Black defeated Mark Briscoe & Jay Lethal & Jeff Jarrett in a Street Fight

• Mistico defeated Angelico

• Bryan Danielson defeated Shane Taylor. After the match, Will Ospreay came out to confront Danielson. The American Dragon challenged Ospreay to a match at AEW Dynasty to which Ospreay agreed. 

• The Young Bucks and Kazuchika Okada defeated Jon Cruz & Liam Gray & Adrian Alonis. Eddie Kingston tried to attack the Bucks and Okada but was overpowered. Penta and then PAC hit the ring, setting up a six-man tag for Big Business on March 13. 

• Mariah May defeated Trish Adora. Toni Storm came out and awarded May a “Toni Award” but Deonna Purrazzo attacked Storm. May made the save.

• Nick Wayne defeated Adam Priest. Christian Cage ripped up a masked fan’s sign. The fan attacked Cage and unmasked as Adam Copeland. 

• Tony Schiavone interviewed FTR in the ring about the tournament to crown the AEW Tag Team Champions. FTR said they want to be the first-ever three-time AEW World Tag Team Champions. The Infantry came out and said they want to be champions before everyone shook hands. 

• Lionheart Chris Jericho defeated CMLL’s Titan with the Walls of Jericho. The Gates of Agony attacked Jericho but Hook made the save with a Singapore Cane.

AEW star Will Ospreay recently came up with a heart-touching gesture as he paid tribute to the late Kurtis “Mad Kurt” Chapman on this week’s edition of AEW Dynamite.

The wrestling world was recently saddened as Kurtis “Mad Kurt” Chapman tragically passed away at the age of 26 in December 2023. His final match took place in June last year and he had successfully retained his Resurgence Arthouse Championship.

Will Ospreay honors Kurtis “Mad Kurt” Chapman

Will Ospreay headlined last night’s AEW Dynamite against ROH World Television Champion Kyle Fletcher. During the match, ‘The Aerial Assassin’ decided to honor Mad Kurt. 

It was nothing but a touching gesture as he danced and dabbed in the ring, paying homage to Mad Kurt in the process. The crowd certainly recognized the value of this heartfelt moment.

The Mad Kurt Tribute by Ospreay??#AEWDynamite pic.twitter.com/x88IG2bMJI

— Peps? (@Peps_Wrestling) March 7, 2024

The hard-fought bout saw some intense action with both Ospreay and Fletcher showcasing their talent. At the end of the match, it was Will Ospreay, who emerged victorious by pinning Fletcher with his signature move, the Hidden Blade. 

Following the match, he displayed sporting spirit and showed respect to his opponent. Don Callis joined the celebration but it was short-lived as it was interrupted by none other than The Blackpool Combat Club’s Bryan Danielson

Danielson confronted Ospreay, leading to a staredown that has created a buzz. This staredown left the fans speculating about their future storyline. Fans are wondering what Danielson has to do with Ospreay. We will have to wait and see as the drama unfolds.

What does Bryan Danielson want with Will Ospreay?!

Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS!@WillOspreay | @BryanDanielson pic.twitter.com/sl7RvO2dD3

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) March 7, 2024

Will Ospreay wrestled his first match in AEW as a full-time talent at AEW Revolution 2024 and showed the world why he is considered one of the best in ring talent in all of wrestling. People are already calling his fight with Konosuke Takeshita a match of the year contender and Ospreay is aware that he has set the bar pretty high for himself.

The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion took part in the post-Revolution media scrum after his big win. When asked how he’s feeling after the bout, Ospreay praised Takeshita and mentioned that he’s got a lot of work to do now:

“I mean I’ve got a lot to top now, haven’t I? Once again, I can’t do those type of matches without a great partner to do it with. Takeshita is every bit as good as Will Ospreay. Just on that night I was just better, pure and simple. But look at the move that I had to put him away with – the tiger driver.

I keep saying this so much the tiger driver 91 is the most dangerous move in wrestling. It was used back in the day by Mitsuharu Misawa. It is one of the most dangerous moves in wrestling. Some guys were able to kind of figure out a way of getting out of it but it’s complete pressure on your neck man. It’s a sheer drop. I won’t be surprised if in five months’ time people will be like ‘Hey you can’t do that move anymore'”

Most Dangerous Man In Wrestling: Will Ospreay

Will Ospreay noted that he is a very lovely man outside of the ring. When it comes to wrestling, however, the former champion claimed that he is ‘a mean motherfucker’:

But this is what I bring to the table man. I’m one of the most dangerous professional wrestlers in the world. I’m a lovely man. I’ll walk your mom across the street any day of the week. I will happily give you a cuddle if you are ever feeling sad. I’m always a good shoulder to cry on and I will look after you till the day I die but I am one mean motherfucker when I want to be.

That’s all I care about man. This is the first PPV of AEW this year, 2024. Right so we got Dynasty, we’ve got Forbidden Door, Double or Nothing, All In, All Out, WrestleDream, Full Gear, and Worlds End. That’s the first one. Like I said, the most dangerous man in wrestling right now bruv.”

• Exclusive: Watch Sting’s Full Uncut Address After Retirement Match At AEW Revolution 2024

You can check out the full AEW Revolution media scrum below:

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription.

Last night on AEW Dynamite, it was announced that Will Ospreay is officially arriving as an AEW star next week. 

Will Ospreay was revealed as AEW’s marquee signing at Full Gear. WWE was in the race for his services but it was AEW that bagged the signing. Despite receiving an offer from WWE, Ospreay recently clarified his decision to join AEW. 

Ospreay thrived in Japan having several accolades. He had been one of NJPW’s finest stars and he is a former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion and a two-time IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion.

He has competed inside the AEW ring several times during AEW’s working relationship with NJPW. He even defeated Kenny Omega at Forbidden Door 2023 and Chris Jericho at AEW All In: London. 

However, he concluded his commitments with NJPW before joining AEW and his last appearance in the Japanese promotion took place at NJPW New Beginning in Osaka on February 11 where he competed in a 10-man steel cage match

Will Ospreay coming to AEW Dynamite next week

During the February 21 e of edition of AEW Dynamite, the it was announced that ‘The Aerial Assassin’ will make an appearance on the February 28 episode of the show in Huntsville, Alabama. 

Will Ospreay is All Elite and will be LIVE next Wednesday at #AEW Dynamite!

Watch #AEWDynamite LIVE on TBS!@WillOspreay pic.twitter.com/B9mKPJl146

— All Elite Wrestling (@AEW) February 22, 2024

All Elite Willy !

Video by @tigerstyIepro

pic.twitter.com/zVPyOPFhX0

— Will Ospreay • ????????? (@WillOspreay) February 21, 2024

Ospreay will face Don Callis Family’s Konosuke Takeshita at AEW Revolution and it will be Ospreay’s first as a full-time wrestler of the AEW roster. This will also mark his first match for the promotion after competing in a six-man tag team match at last October’s WrestleDream pay-per-view.

AEW Revolution pay-per-view is set to take place on March 3 at Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC. 

New Japan Pro Wrestling is currently undergoing massive changes to start the year. The company has seen featured stars on their roster leave for All Elite Wrestling in the past year. Recently, NJPW could not re-sign fan favorites Kazuchika Okada, Will Ospreay, and Mercedes Monè. In the wake of talent leaving, fans have questioned who can fill the void left. 

NJPW President Hiroshi Tanahashi knows the company’s condition and aims to create new stars. In an interview with Inside The Ropes’ Liam Wyatt, Tanahashi spoke openly about NJPW needing star power and its importance in the wrestling business. 

Inside The Ropes‘ Alex Hunt transcribed the following quote.

“This is a star-driven business, and we need to make new stars. That goes beyond success in the ring as well- mainstream awareness and name value is the key to success. I want more of our wrestlers becoming household names,” said Tanahashi

In the past year, NJPW has tried to feature some of the talent the company views highly. Shota Umino, Ren Narita, and Yota Tsuji were named the Reiwa Three Musketeers. This is an honor to recognize talent they believe will lead the company for this generation. However, NJPW has made questionable decisions, like not having Okada or Ospreay take a loss against any of the younger talent.

The most notable decision was not to have Umino defeat Ospreay to win the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship at NJPW Power Struggle on November 4, 2023. Ospreay would sign with AEW a few weeks later at AEW Full Gear. 

Although the company has a star power issue, talent leaving puts NJPW in a position to be motivated to focus on its future. 

What’s The Next Big Events In NJPW?

NJPW has a chance to showcase their roster on the next big event, NJPW The New Beginning In Sapporo, on February 23 and 24. The two-day show will have Okada compete in his final matches in NJPW and represent a new start for the company. 

One of NJPW’s younger stars, Umino, will be in a featured match against NEVER Openweight Champion EVIL for the title. The ‘Roughneck’ will attempt to win his first championship with the company and potentially end his rivalry with the NJPW veteran. 

The upcoming two-day event presents Tanahashi with an opportunity to start creating new stars that can lead the way in a new era for NJPW. 

Will Ospreay’s first official match as an AEW talent will be against a rising star and he may have the decked stacked against him.

On Wednesday night’s episode of AEW Dynamite, the diabolical Don Callis revealed that Konosuke Takeshita will challenge Ospreay on March 3 at AEW Revolution in Greensboro, NC.

Callis claimed that everyone on the roster was afraid to take on Takeshita or Powerhouse Hobbs and so he had to take it upon himself to facilitate the bout between Konosuke and Ospreay.

Ospreay announced that he signed with AEW all the way back in November, but had several obligations to fufill with New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Ospreay did work for TNA as well during his lame duck period and was greatly praised for his influence on the locker room.

Claudio Castagnoli recently did an interview with Adrian Hernandez where he considered Ospreay’s thought process in signing with AEW.

“I’m sure there was something for Will where it’s like … Tokyo Dome, New Japan, he’s been there for, I believe, it was seven plus years, there’s the same thing of like, ‘okay I’ve done this, I know I can do this, if I want to challenge myself …’ that’s always the scary part,” Castagnoli said. “Do you choose comfort or do you want to challenge yourself and take that leap of faith?” 

On the Valentine’s Day episode of Dynamite, it was also revealed who Sting’s final opponents will be at AEW Revolution.

Please credit Adrian Hernandez and h/t to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.

Will Ospreay is on his way to AEW, and it was revealed during Full Gear that he was Tony Khan’s big signing. His deal with NJPW still had some time left on it, but now Ospreay is bidding farewell.

Will Ospreay’s Goodbye to NJPW

Ospreay made a lot of memories in NJPW, and he performed on some of the biggest stages the company could give him. All great things must come to an end, and that includes his time in the company.

While taking to Twitter/X, Will Ospreay thanked everyone at NJPW who had a hand in making him who he is today. He said that the roster is like family, and his door is always open for them.

Thank you to all the lads of UE. When the fans didn’t have a voice we were the shot in the arse that NJPW needed. You all are like my brothers and if you ever needed me, my door will always be open to you all.

Thank you for getting in that cage with me & making history

Thank you to all the lads of UE.

When the fans didn’t have a voice we were the shot in the arse that NJPW needed. You all are like my brothers and if you ever needed me, my door will always be open to you all.

Thank you for getting in that cage with me & making history pic.twitter.com/QIrOi62Vha

— Will Ospreay • ????????? (@WillOspreay) February 12, 2024

What’s Next For Will Ospreay

Will Ospreay inked a deal with AEW, but Tony Khan’s company is also going to allow him to wrestle for NJPW on occasion. Ospreay will not be the regular face in NJPW that he once was, but it’s very possible that he will be able to still be a part of the company’s major events.

SE Scoops will have more coverage of this story, and so many more, as Will Ospreay makes his way to AEW as a full-time wrestler. He will be doing a lot of traveling between the UK and America, but that will also come with a brand-new opportunity to show fans why he is considered one of the best active pro wrestlers today.

https://twitter.com/PuroresuFlow/status/1757036599617929269

Will Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada gave a finale to be proud of with their showdown in New Japan Pro Wrestling.

Last weekend, New Japan Pro Wrestling held its Battle in the Valley event. The show was headlined by what is likely the final chapter of Okada and Ospreay’s storied rivalry. The pair’s feud has been the crown jewel of New Japan over the past few years. The match saw Okada get the win, bringing his record against Ospreay to 8-2.

Okada and Ospreay. Counter after Counter. THIS FREAKING SEQUENCE.pic.twitter.com/DLsOkfItpo

— Drainmaker ?? ? (@DrainBamager) January 14, 2024

What’s Next?

Ospreay’s final match for New Japan will take place at the New Beginning in Osaka on Sunday, February 11. The match will see the United Empire face the Bullet Club War Dogs in New Japan’s first steel cage match since 2004. After this match, Ospreay will begin competing full-time for AEW.

Okada’s future is far less certain. His current deal with New Japan is set to expire by the end of this month. There has been renewed interest in Okada from WWE but it is unclear if an offer has been made at this time.

While WWE would love to sign Okada, his future may remain with New Japan. With Hiroshi Takahashi recently appointed as the promotion’s new President, there is a belief that Takahashi could resolve Okada’s strained relationship with management. Okada has also been promoted for New Japan events in February, suggesting that an agreement has already been reached.

NJPW Battle in the Valley 2024 Results

Here are the results for NJPW Battle in the Valley 2024: 

• Pre-Show: Matt Vandagriff defeated Goldy by pinfall (Strong Survivor Match

• Pre-Show: Stephanie Vaquer defeated Viva Van by pinfall

• Jacob Fatu, Fred Rosser, and Shota Umino defeated Team Filthy (Tom Lawlor, Jorel Nelson, and Royce Isaacs) by pinfall

• Máscara Dorada and Volador Jr. defeated Rocky Romero and Soberano Jr. by pinfall

• David Finlay defeated TJP by pinfall

• Guerrillas of Destiny (Hikuleo and El Phantasmo) (c) defeated Bullet Club War Dogs (Clark Connors and Alex Coughlin) by pinfall (NJPW Strong Openweight Tag Team Championships)

• Giulia (c) defeated Trish Adora by pinfall (NJPW Strong Women’s Championship)

• The Chosen Bros (Matt Riddle and Jeff Cobb) defeated TMDK (Zack Sabre Jr. and Bad Dude Tito) by pinfall

• Eddie Kingston (c) vs. Gabe Kidd ended in a double count out (American Triple Crown Championship)

• Jon Moxley defeated Shingo Takagi by pinfall (Steel Cage match)

• Kazuchika Okada defeated Will Ospreay by pinfall

Dirty Dango isn’t quite dancing with the devil at TNA Hard To Kill, but he will be squaring off against someone who is “Not Human.”

On January 13, the TNA brand officially returns with their Hard To Kill PLE and Dango will be one of the featured fights as he squares off against PCO in singles action.

Speaking with SEScoops.com in an exclusive interview, Dango made mention of all the premiere athletes TNA have on their roster. You can catch the complete interview with Dirty Dango here:

When asked who has been great at balancing their athleticism with their in-ring persona. The first person he thought of was Steve Maclin, who Dango first worked with in NXT.

“Talking about a guy who kind of got brushed aside and, you know, maybe overlooked in the past, and he totally reinvented himself, came up with a really cool character. His promos are on really on par and his work I feel is way better than it was.”

Will Ospreay & TNA

However, another name Dango brought up is Will Ospreay, who will be competing this weekend in Las Vegas at the TNA Snake Eyes tapings.

“The thing I like about Ospreay is he can do the high flying, but his ground game and aggressiveness is really, really, really good.He lays his s*** in which I really like and I appreciate he doesn’t throw things away just to get to the high spot, right?

“In my book, probably the best out there right now. So it’s cool to have him around and he’s bringing out the best of the TNA locker room for sure.”

Ospreay has signed a long-term deal with AEW, but TNA expressed major interest in inking him to a contract before that. 

Ospreay’s talent is obvious and Dango saw his influence first-hand behind the curtain and in the ring.

“Guys like Will Ospreay that bring that level up and so it’s cool. It’s cool to see. It’s fun to watch. I don’t get excited watching a lot of wrestling now, but his matches do make me sit down and watch. So it’s good.”

Other topics covered in our interview with Dirty Dango include Arn Anderson’s influence on his career, what pro wrestling can learn from baseball and so much more. 

Watch WILL OSPREAY vs. MIKE BAYLEY from Bound For Glory 2023 | Impact Wrestling’s Match of the YEar

Will Ospreay was revealed as AEW’s big signing at Full Gear. That did not mean he could jump straight into AEW’s storylines, because The Aerial Assassin needed to wrap things up with New Japan Pro-Wrestling first. Although he picked AEW, WWE was very much a contender for his services.

Will Ospreay Confirms WWE Offer Was Real

Will Ospreay is set to compete in his final NJPW match on February 11th before making the move to AEW. Despite receiving an offer from WWE, Ospreay has clarified his decision to join AEW.

In an interview with Gamespot, Ospreay acknowledged the offer from WWE but emphasized the trust he has in Tony Khan, a significant factor influencing his decision to sign with AEW.

“I want to know what I’m doing within the ring, and the rest, for me, is easy. What more could you want from a boss?”

Will Ospreay Speaks on Future AEW Matchups

With many available options and potential opponents in AEW, Will Ospreay shared his thoughts on what lies ahead for him as he prepares to engage with a new roster.

While Ospreay has thrived in Japan, the pro wrestling landscape is always changing; this is something he is all too familiar with as the 30-year-old former World Champion helped blaze a trail others area already walking on. 

Ospreay already got this hands dirty in AEW with a match against Chris Jericho, and now he can’t wait to see what awaits him. Obviously, he is looking for a top spot, and he isn’t afraid to share his championship intentions.

“There’s something for me to climb, there’s something for me to build upon. That first match with Chris Jericho, who is one of the biggest wrestling stars in the world, was probably the biggest star in the company at that time. I want to progress from that.”

“I want to see what other bucket [list items] I can tick. I want to go for championships. I want to go for world titles. I want to see what I can actually do because I’ve never been put in these situations. New Japan is a sports-based wrestling product, it isn’t really known for its on-screen personalities. So this is all new for me and I just want to test myself. I want to try my very best to swim in waters I’m not very sure of, so for me, this is all a challenge.”

Will Ospreay Almost Ended Up In America Years Ago

Will Ospreay’s latest deal in the wrestling world represents a significant move, as he finally signed with a North American pro wrestling company. That was not for lack of trying.

Paul Heyman offered Ospreay an EVOLVE contract 7 years ago during a Q&A where he just so happened to be in the front row. That contract was offered on behalf of Gabe Sapolsky, whom Heyman was simply delivering a message for in his own way.

Although Ospreay didn’t end up becoming a regular in EVOLVE, we can only imagine how much different the pro wrestling world would be today if he accepted it. Now, he can apply his trade in North America as an All Elite star.

New Japan Pro Wrestling has wrapped up one of their biggest annual event, NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18 (#WK18) from the historic Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan. 

The show featured a stacked card, including the long-awaited rematch between Kazuchika Okada and Bryan Danielson. 

Here are the four takeaways and highlights from NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18.

Kazuchika Okada Avenged His Forbidden Door Loss To Bryan Danielson

Fans have been looking forward to Okada and Danielson’s rematch since their legendary first encounter at AEWxNJPW Forbidden Door on June 25, 2023. “The American Dragon” won a hard-fought contest against Okada by submission. Looking to avenge his loss, the NJPW superstar was motivated to get a big victory over Danielson at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18. 

In the match, both talented wrestlers tried to outmaneuver the other in the co-main event. Danielson had control of the match early by working over Okada’s right arm. Although “The American Dragon” gave his opponent problems throughout the match, Okada was able to land the Rainmaker to avenge his loss. 

After the match, both superstars respected each other by bowing their heads in the ring. The win for Okada may set up another match to end their rivalry once and for all. 

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??????https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW pic.twitter.com/Nga5DrRYER

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

?WRESTLE KINGDOM 18 in ??????

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? @rainmakerXokada × @bryandanielson#njpwworld ?????

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— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

David Finlay beat Moxley and Ospreay to become the first IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion, then got into it with Dolph Ziggler

David Finlay defeated Will Ospreay and Jon Moxley in a tense three-way match to become the inaugural IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion. The matchup saw all three competitors were able to have their moments, but the Finlay did just enough to get the victory. 

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— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

The action took both in the ring and the crowd, as each wrestler did whatever it took to win. Weapons also got involved in the hard-hitting title match, including steel chairs and a table. One notable highlight in the match was Jon Moxley spiking Finlay on his head on Ospreay’s chest with a Pile Driver. 

The turning point in the match was when BULLET CLUB War Dogs (Alex Coughlin & Gabe Kidd) attacked Ospreay and Moxley to help Finlay. The two AEW superstars overcame the assault, which eventually led to Finlay winning. The BULLET CLUB leader landed a Suplex into a knee to the face of Ospreay to become the champion. 

While celebrating his victory, Finlay got into an altercation with former WWE superstar Nic Nemeth at ringside. This was seemingly done to set up a match between the two for the title. 

.@THEdavidfinlay × @HEELZiggler "Next Battle?"

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/AO2znYwWxl

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

Tetsuya Naito defeated his former ally to become the new IWGP Heavyweight Champion

The NJPW legend has concluded his journey to become an IWGP World Heavyweight Champion in the main event. Tetsuya Naito earned his opportunity to challenge SANADA for the title by winning last year’s G1 Climax. In a match months in the making, Naito earned a tough win over his former Los Ingobernables de Japon ally.  

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?G1 CLIMAX 33??? ????????#njpwworld ?????

??????https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW pic.twitter.com/udVJUSbmlv

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

SANADA gave Naito everything he could handle as he tried to defend the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion for the fifth time successfully. However, Naito was able to end SANADA’s reign after landing Destino. 

Before Naito could celebrate his win, he was attacked by EVIL and Dick Togo. SANADA would make the save and take out the “heels.” After taking out the House of Torture members, SANADA left the ring to give Naito his moment to celebrate with the NJPW fans. 

.@seiyasanada "Inverted Frankensteiner ? Shining Wizard"

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/UTivZh0v10

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

Guerrillas Of Destiny won both IWGP/ NJPW Strong Tag Team titles

The tag title match was set after Bishamon (Hirooki Goto & YOSHI-HASHI) won the 2023 World Tag League. In the finals, they defeated Guerrillas Of Destiny (El Phantasmo & Hikuleo). After the win, Goto and HASHI gave G.O.D. a rematch at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18 in a winner-takes-all match for the IWGP & NJPW Strong Tag Team Championships. 

.@510njpw & @YOSHIHASHICHAOS "??!!!"

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/FLYwqR8bHx

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

This proved to be a mistake, as G.O.D. won both tag titles. Both teams went back and forth, as neither wanted to take the loss. Towards the end of the match, Phantasmo took out HASHI outside the ring with a Moonsault from the top rope. The match finished when Hikuleo landed Super Thunder Kiss 86 from the top rope on Goto for the pin.  

After the match, both teams showed respect for each other, and G.O.D. celebrated with the crowd before returning backstage. 

.@elpwrestling & @Hiku_Leo ""SUPER THUNDER KISS '86""

Sign up Now & Stay tuned to https://t.co/CeQLGjTmZ5#njwk18 #NJPW #njpwworld pic.twitter.com/gUONQJ2OHs

— NJPW WORLD (@njpwworld) January 4, 2024

Conclusion

NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18 was a great card with plenty of incredible matches. Each match delivered exciting action and great moments, including seven title changes. 

One of the matches that fans will discuss is the three-way match for the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship. The match was fast-paced and delivered memorable moments, but it teased what could happen next with Nemeth. 

The next notable event for the company will be the NJPW Battle In The Valley on January 13 at the San Jose Civic in San Jose, California. Currently, NJPW has announced who will compete on the card. Fans should expect match announcements to come soon. 

Will Ospreay has issued a challenge to Kazuchika Okada for a rematch at Battle At The Valley in a new video promoting NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18.

Ospreay has a long history with The Rainmaker. He was defeated by the Japanese star at last year’s G1 Climax finals in August. Will turned things around this year and managed to pick up the victory against Okada when the two faced off again in a B block match of the tournament in July.

NJPW has been running an interview series on their YouTube channel to promote the upcoming Tokyo Dome show. The AEW star who will be challenging for the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship at the event was the subject to the latest one of these interviews.

Will Ospreay’s Challenge

The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion was asked if the meaning of his upcoming match has changed since he signed with Tony Khan’s promotion.

The leader of the United Empire said that nothing has changed, because he is allowed to do what he was doing with New Japan Pro Wrestling. Ospreay then talked about him and Okada’s “unfinished business” and issued a challenge:

“I am confident going into this match [at Wrestle Kingdom] that I’ll be walking away with this championship,” Ospreay said. “I am that confident in doing it that I am prepared to make a challenge right here for San Jose, I know Okada is on that poster.

And we have so much unfinished business, granted I was able to get that win in G1 and I can finally prove to everybody that I can beat Okada but I’m happy to put this challenge out right here, right now in front of you all. That I wanna face Okada in San Jose.”

Ospreay made it clear that he is still as committed to New Japan Pro Wrestling as ever, and Okada will be the “first perfect defense” after he wins the championship.

“If I’m gonna be moving on to doing some other stuff, I’m still keeping my hands in New Japan. I wanna show everybody that I’m committed, that I’m staying around and that I have aspirations and plans on defending this championship all around the world, and Okada will be the first perfect defense for that.”

Wrestle Kingdom 18 is set for January 4, 2024, at the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan. You can watch it live on NJPW World.

The main event of the show will see SANADA defending his IWGP Heavyweight Championship against Tetsuya Naito. Bryan Danielson will face Kazuchika Okada, and David Finlay, Jon Moxley, and Ospreay will fight in a triple threat match to crown the inaugural IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion. 

New Japan Pro Wrestling continued its second round of the New Japan Cup on March 13 at the Item Ehime in Ehime, Japan.

The main event had Will Ospreay take on his United Empire faction member Mark Davis in the second round of the New Japan Cup. In the co-main event, EVIL competed against Jeff Cobb. The winner of Ospreay vs. Davis and EVIL vs. Cobb will face each other in the next round of the New Japan Cup on March 17.

NJPW streamed their event live on NJPW World at 6:00 AM ET/3:00 AM PT. However, to watch the New Japan Cup, fans must subscribe to their service, which is $9.99 in the United States.

If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

New Japan Cup 2023 Results (3/13)

1. Chase Owens & Kenta def. Oskar Leube & Ren Narita
2. Shota Umino & Tama Tonga def. Kosei Fujita & Zack Sabre Jr
3. Sho & Yujiro Takahashi def. Taka Michinoku & Taichi
4. Aaron Henare, Great-O-Khan & Kyle Fletcher def. Gedo, El Phantasmo & David Finlay
5. Bushi, Hiromu Takahashi, Sanada, Shingo Takagi & Tetsuya Naito def. Lio Rush, Yoh, Yoshi-Hashi, Tomohiro Ishii & Hirooki Goto
6. EVIL def. Jeff Cobb- New Japan Cup Tournament Match(Second Round)
7. Will Ospreay def. Mark Davis- New Japan Cup Tournament Match(Second Round)

New Japan Cup (3/13) Highlights

EVIL def. Jeff Cobb

Will Ospreay def. Mark Davis

New Japan Pro Wrestling had its second day of the New Japan Cup tournament on March 6 at the Ota Ward General Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan. March 6 marks the 51st anniversary of the first NJPW event.

The main event had IWGP Tag Team Champions Yoshi-Hashi, and Hirooki Goto defend their titles against Hiroshi Tanahashi and Kazuchika Okada. The event also had two New Japan Cup tournament matches, with David Finlay taking on Tomohiro Ishii and Shota Uno facing Yujiro Takahashi.

The event went live on NJPW World for free at 4:30 AM ET/1:30 AM PT. However, to watch more of NJPW’s New Japan Cup, fans must subscribe to their service, which is $9.99 in the United States.

If you would like more results for this week’s events in wrestling, please check back on our results section.

New Japan Cup 2023 Results (3/6)

1. El Phantasmo & Kenta def. Kosei Fujita & Zack Sabre Jr
2. Kyle Fletcher, Mark Davis & Will Ospreay def. Satoshi Kojima, Toru Yano & Tama Tonga
3. Ren Narita, El Desperado & Minoru Suzuki def. Dick Togo, Sho & EVIL
4. Aaron Henare, Great-O-Khan & Jeff Cobb def. Sanada, Shingo Takagi & Tetsuya Naito
5. Lio Rush & Yoh def. Bushi & Hiromu Takahashi
6. Shota Umino def. Yujiro Takahashi- New Japan Cup Tournament Match(1st Round)
7. David Finlay def. Tomohiro Ishii- New Japan Cup Tournament Match(1st Round)
8. (C) Yoshi-Hashi & Hirooki Goto def. Hiroshi Tanahashi & Kazuchika Okada- IWGP Tag Team Championship Match

NJPW New Japan Cup (3/6) Highlights

Shota Umino def. Yujiro Takahashi

David Finlay def. Tomohiro Ishii

WrestleMania weekend just got bigger as IMPACT Wrestling, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling announced a co-promoted show. 

The event will take place on Thursday night, March 30, at the Globe Theater in Los Angeles, with stars from both promotions competing. There will be numerous first-ever dream matches confirmed.

The show, titled Multiverse United: Only The STRONG Survive, is slated to air live on pay-per-view on fite.tv, starting at 8 p.m. PST.

The Matches

Some of the top matches announced for the show include IMPACT World Champion Josh Alexander taking on KUSHIDA while “Speedball” Mike Bailey battles Will Ospreay in the co-main event.

 The match between Bailey and Ospreay will be their fifth singles match against each other, with the first taking place in 2015 while their most recent bout coming in August 2022. 

“Will Ospreay is the best professional wrestler in the world, after me,” Bailey said. “So, this will be the best professional wrestling match of the year.”

Also set for the show is Jeff Cobb vs. Moose. IMPACT’s X Division Champion Trey Miguel, Ace Austin, and Chris Bey are advertised to appear. At the same time, NJPW will be represented by KENTA, Rocky Romero, Minoru Suzuki, Clark Connors, Kevin Knight, Fred Rosser, and many others.

 Tickets for Multiverse United start at $60 and go on sale this Friday at 10 am EST on highspots.com. Fans can get front-row seats for $350 each. There will also be limited VIP seats that are perk-filled, including an exclusive event t-shirt, commemorative ringside photograph, and more.

Will Ospreay still wants to share the ring with WWE’s Seth Rollins.

Ospreay has been very vocal about his desire to wrestle against WWE’s “Architect” in recent weeks. He was asked about these aspirations during a recent appearance on The Sessions with Renee Paquette.

Despite the fact that both men are currently wrestling for different promotions, Ospreay says he wants to make it work while the potential window for such an arrangement is still open.

“I would love to do it. I liked Seth before he was Seth. I liked him when he was Tyler Black. I used to think he was a good wrestler in Ring of Honor, and I think he still is a good wrestler. So if there was a chance of making it work, I’d absolutely love to make it work.

“It’s just, we are bound by contractual obligations that say that we can’t do it. But I don’t know. I feel like the doors are slowly opening to other exports, and maybe things can happen here and there. But I don’t know. A little bit, like someone opened a window, but not the good window, like that little small bathroom [window].”

The history between the two men began back in 2019, when a Twitter feud between Ospreay and Rollins broke out. Since, Ospreay himself has said that he’s put that behind him, however, he can’t ignore that there’s a story to be told inside the ring given the history.

However, given the current state of confusion surrounding WWE at the moment, any such crossover bout likely won’t be in the cards any time soon.

Quotes via WrestleZone

Will Ospreay is regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers working today, but the Covid-19 pandemic proved to be especially tough on the Brit.

Due to the pandemic, several wrestling promotions brought in strict measures to stop the spread of the virus, with WWE, AEW, and Impact going without live fans.

New Japan has kept some of its pandemic-era rules in place, including a restriction on cheering to lower the risk of oral transmission.

Nothing

Despite the Pandemic, Ospreay and the New Japan roster attempted to make the best of things by putting on high-quality matches when they had the chance.

Speaking to Renee Paquette on The Sessions, Ospreay recalled an emptiness inside him during arguably the heights of his career.

“For the last three years I do feel I’ve been on auto-pilot a little bit. I remember last year’s Wrestle Kingdom, and Great-O-Khan is massaging my shoulders just as I’m about to go out and he goes ‘how are you feeling?’ And I went ‘I feel nothing’ because honestly, it was one of those where even though it was the main event of the Tokyo Dome, it wasn’t the real thing. It wasn’t the real experience.”

“Great-O-Khan is massaging my shoulders just as I’m about to go out and he goes ‘how are you feeling?’ And I went ‘I feel nothing.'”

Will Ospreay on his feelings at Wrestle Kingdom 16 in 2022.

Ospreay went on to say that he tried to make the best of it by trying to goad the crowd into an audible reaction.

“It’s heartbreaking, but I tried to see it almost like a game where I was like ‘okay I’m going to be so good, that I make you make noise.’ I saw it like that but you can only play that game now and again before it becomes tedious and tiresome.

“It was heartbreaking at points because I really did feel like I was doing the best work I’ve ever done, and it was kind of going under the radar because I’m not on national TV. I’m not on weekly TV. New Japan at one point was the hottest thing going. When 2019 came in, all of our arenas were sold out. It was the best G1 we’d ever done, we performed at Madison Square Garden. All systems were go and then that f***ing pandemic came.”

Wrestle Kingdom 17

For this year’s Wrestle Kingdom, New Japan relaxed its policy on cheering and allowed fans in the Tokyo Dome to be as loud as they wished.

Speaking of the difference from last year’s show, Ospreay was grateful and much more relaxed thanks to the change.

“I don’t know anyone who likes watching clap-crowds at all. I want to hear the people, I want to engage with them, and for three years, it’s felt like I was in a prison. So it was really nice to let the doors open and let them all make noise again.

“Getting to walk out there [this year] to my music, to be in my own skin again, it felt like the old me. To do it on that platform, it felt like, for the first time that the eyes of the wrestling world were really on me.”

Ospreay would lose the IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship to Kenny Omega, a result that “gutted” the British wrestler.

For use of these quotes please give a h/t to SEScoops.

On Wednesday at Wrestle Kingdom, Kenny Omega vs. Will Ospreay was the first of a double main event. The match was for Ospreay’s IWGP US Championship.

The match had seeds planted back at Forbidden Door and it’s possible a rematch could either happen in AEW or at Forbidden Door 2, assuming it happens.

Leading up to the match, Ospreay and Omega had a heated exchange at the Wrestle Kingdom press conference. It led to Don Callis praising Ospreay in a very Don Callis way.

Kenny Omega Praises Ospreay

Fans quickly named it as a Match of the Year contender with many saying no other match this year will possibly top it. It was a brutal, hard-hitting match from bell to bell.

Omega hit a DDT on an exposed turnbuckle, leading Ospreay to bleed copious amounts. Ospreay continued the match, but to no avail. Omega regained the title that he was the first to hold.

The new champion took to Twitter to tell Ospreay that he respected his passion. In true Heel Kenny fashion, he told Ospreay that he forgave him.

Will Ospreay Discusses Potential Crossover Match With Seth Rollins

Now that “The Cleaner” has won back the title he once held, it remains to be seen if he will defend it in AEW, NJPW, or both. Omega will compete with the Young Bucks against Death Triangle in the final match of the Best of Seven series. The match is an Escalera de la Muerte match.

Will Ospreay seems to be interested in a crossover match with WWE’s Seth Rollins.

Ospreay recently spoke with Sportkeeda’s WrestleBinge on a variety of topics, including a potentially crossover match with WWE’s “Architect.” He noted that Rollins is more than welcome to make the trip over to Japan to settle their differences.

“I think it would be good to — I mean, obviously all the smoke is cleared between myself and Seth. But like, there’s always that desire or want to see two guys just beat the crap out of one another, right? So if Seth’s still got a bit of an issue, then I’ve got a bit of an issue. So he’s more than welcome to come over to Japan.” 

Back in 2019, Rollins and Ospreay found themselves in a Twitter back-and-forth that apparently developed some bad blood between the pair. Ospreay has seemingly noted that the issues have now subsided, but a match between them would still be interesting.

Recently, Ospreay dropped the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship to Kazuchika Okada at Wrestle Kingdom 17. As for Rollins, he failed to capture the United States Championship from Austin Theory on Monday Night RAW this week.

He also apparently suffered an injury during the bout, meaning any potential matchup between Ospreay and Rollins won’t be happening anytime soon.

Quotes via 411Mania

The highly-anticipated showdown between Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay has finished with ‘The Cleaner’ coming out on top.

The January 4 victory marks the start of Omega’s second reign as IWGP US Champion. His inaugural run with the title in 2017 and 2018 drew widespread acclaim. Omega played up his heel-side against the brash Ospreay in this near 35-minute war.

Both men worked a stiff, hard pace between the ropes, dismantling each other with hard shots and explosive moves. Ultimately, a defiant Ospreay spat in ‘The Cleaner’s face before eating a One Winged Angel to lose his belt.

After several months of re-establishing the US Title’s prestige after a chaotic first half of 2022, Will Ospreay’s defeat here may come as a surprise to some. Omega is of course no longer with the promotion, making the future of the US Title in NJPW more unpredictable than ever.

Today Marks Four Years Since Kenny Omega Last Wrestled In NJPW

Before today’s US Championship war, ‘The Cleaner’ had not competed in NJPW for four years. He was last seen at Wrestle Kingdom 13, where he defended the IWGP Heavyweight Championship against 2018 G1 Climax winner Hiroshi Tanahashi.

Tanahashi ultimately got the better of Omega in a classic main event bout.

Since then, Kenny Omega has of course been focusing most of his time on AEW, where he enjoyed a lengthy run with the World Championship in late 2020 and most of 2021. After spending much of 2022 on the shelf due to injuries, ‘The Cleaner’ returned with a bang to team with old pals The Young Bucks.

If today’s showdown with Will Ospreay at Wrestle Kingdom 17 is anything to go by, Omega still has a lot left in the tank at the singles level.