Will Ospreay responds to debate on NJPW direction & AEW partnership
AEW star Will Ospreay weighed in on the social media debate surrounding NJPW’s talent development, missing opportunities amid changing times.
Ospreay responded to Josh from We Work Stiff’s X post citing that ‘the focus Ospreay has placed on NJPW’s perceived inability to create stars is interesting’ and the promotion’s lack of adaptation to transitioning timelines.
“Disagree…. Kenny Omega who was top 4 during the greatest time period in NJPW times comes back from nearly dying (as an AEW contracted talent).”
“His first match back is against Gabe Kidd.”
“They legitimately have the craziest match that year. Did they capitalise on the performance of Gabe ??”
“Answer NO.”
“You look at Goto who has been a soldier has only reach that popularity after god knows how many years.”
“Callum has completely grown into the role and now he is hurt.”
“You got some diamonds in the rough like Yuya & Oiwa.”
“Shota is just finding his feet after so many flops.”
“Drilla puts in so much work and still isn’t being given the ball”
“I’m not saying AEW relationship is perfect, there is more we could do as a partner…
But come off the idea of we don’t send our top guys.”
“We legitimately have given you the top 1% in the wrestling world in Kenny, Okada, Takeshita, Andrade & myself.”
“And I’m speaking for myself mainly, but for sure the other feel the same.
I love coming to NJPW because it was my home for 8years. I’ve legit owe my life to the lion mark”
“My point remains throughout this battle with opinion of those that have no idea what it is to be a New Japan Wrestler, Tsuji should represent the company as champion in any event that has New Japans presence. Whether it’s a multi man, open challenge or whatever the f*ck it is.”
“There is a level of pride you should have especially holding that championship.”
Ospreay kicked off his NJPW association in 2016 when he was introduced as an addition to Chaos. He imminently challenged Kushida for an IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship match for Invasion Attack on April 10. During his tenure with the promotion, Ospreay won numerous titles including the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, IWGP United States Heavyweight Championship, IWGP Intercontinental Championship and NEVER Openweight Championship.
Rosanne Raphael is a wrestling writer with over three and a half years of experience covering all things related to the industry. From a kindergarten teacher to PR Associate to turning her lifelong passion for the industry into a career, Rosanne is currently writing for F4W Online where she focuses on wrestling news, analysis, and storytelling.
Rosanne previously contributed to Sportskeeda as an Assistant Content Manager.
When not consumed by wrestling, Rosanne is a musician and an aspiring artist.