Will Ospreay Prepares for AEW Pay-Per-View
All Elite Wrestling’s upcoming event, Double or Nothing, presents a unique opportunity for Will Ospreay. Facing off against Samoa Joe in the Owen Hart Invitational, this match marks a pivotal moment in Ospreay’s career, especially after his recent injury. He recently discussed his future, his wrestling legacy, and the people who have influenced him during an interview.
Reflecting on his journey, Ospreay recalls the day, 21 years ago, when he decided to pursue wrestling after witnessing the legendary triple threat match between AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and Christopher Daniels at TNA Unbreakable 2005. “AJ’s movements were something I’d never seen before,” he said. Now, he’s stepping into the ring with two of his idols in AEW. While Christopher Daniels has transitioned to a behind-the-scenes role, Samoa Joe remains a formidable competitor—this will be Ospreay’s first one-on-one match against Joe.
A key theme leading up to this match is Ospreay’s allegiance, as both Samoa Joe and Jon Moxley vie for his attention for the next phase of his career. Recently, Ospreay has been training with Moxley’s team, which has proven beneficial. “The results speak for themselves. I can’t argue with that,” he mentioned, noting the focused work on his neck, which has redefined his wrestling style.
Known for his high-flying abilities, Ospreay is now adjusting his approach at 33 due to lingering neck and back issues. “We need to move a little slower now,” he acknowledged, “but maybe that’s a good thing.” Although his training with Moxley may have ruffled Joe’s feathers, it was a strategic choice for his career. After all, facing Joe, especially with his finishing move targeting the neck, is no small challenge.
“It’s a scary fall, honestly. I try not to dwell on it too much,” Ospreay admitted, acknowledging Joe’s size and reach as obstacles for their match.
Ospreay also shared how he doesn’t dwell on the distant future; he lives for the moment, grateful for each match. He’s particularly excited about the AEW event, All In, set to be held at Wembley Stadium on August 30th. “That feeling will never go away,” he said, recalling childhood dreams of wrestling at that iconic venue. When he had his last match there in 2024, he felt the weight of that dream realized, especially with the crowd chanting his family name.
Ospreay has defied the common trajectory in wrestling. While most talents don’t really find their footing until their mid-30s, he has been a standout since his early twenties. After debuting at 21 in British Progress, he climbed the ranks in New Japan Pro Wrestling, capturing the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship by 25. He has been labeled an innovator in wrestling even before reaching his thirties, prompting reflection on how it feels to be recognized for his contributions.
“Sometimes I feel like I’ve hit my peak too soon,” he joked, noting his physical setbacks. Yet, he sees it as a significant honor to be viewed in that light.
Beyond the match with Samoa Joe, Ospreay was asked about his former AEW partners, Kyle Fletcher and Mark Davis, who initially formed a tag team known as Aussie Open. Their departure from Ospreay’s United Empire faction in Japan led to some rivalry, but he still keeps an eye on their progress. “Kyle and Mark lived with me in Japan, and we became close,” he shared, albeit with some reluctance about Fletcher’s methods. Still, he admired their resilience in finding success post-split.
Having collaborated with many wrestlers in AEW, Ospreay mentioned Anthony Bowens as someone he is eager to face. He also expressed a desire to complete his trilogy with Kenny Omega once Omega is healthy.
When asked about his personal “Mount Rushmore” of wrestling—those who have influenced him the most—he named four key figures. They are:
- AJ Styles for his impact and creativity.
- Kazuchika Okada for his kindness and skill.
- Naomichi Marufuji for advancing the sport.
- Kenny Omega, as Ospreay strives to be recognized as the best in the world.
Ever aware of the precariousness of his profession, Ospreay understands that each match could be pivotal. Although he faces physical challenges, his hunger to succeed remains strong. He’s determined to establish himself further in AEW, eager to showcase his love for the sport and his ambition moving forward.
For now, Ospreay’s focus is squarely on his upcoming bout. The challenge of facing Samoa Joe at Double or Nothing is significant, a chance to not only test himself against a legend but also to carve out a renewed identity as the evolved Will Ospreay. Fans are eager to see how it unfolds.
All Elite Wrestling’s Double or Nothing will air live from Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, New York on Sunday, May 24th at 8 PM ET.
