A significant personal milestone for AEW talent Nigel McGuinness has sparked heartfelt reactions from prominent figures within the wrestling community, including Dustin Rhodes. McGuinness’s wife, Kaori, shared a post indicating she is expecting their first child, highlighting the joyous development that captured widespread attention.
Nigel McGuinness and Kaori Announce Pregnancy
Nigel McGuinness, who is also known for his occasional commentary work in All Elite Wrestling, recently revealed this important update through a photo posted by his wife Kaori. Although the caption was somewhat cryptic, it clearly suggested that the couple is anticipating the arrival of their child.
“Something magical has happened 🪄 💙Our crumpet is toasting… 🩵”.
The announcement prompted an outpouring of congratulations from well-known wrestling personalities. AEW veteran Dustin Rhodes, alongside stars like Taya Valkyrie, Renee Paquette, and Arkady Aura, expressed their happiness for the couple. The WWE veteran Natalya and ring announcer Alicia Taylor also extended their best wishes. Jimmy Jacobs from Major League Pro Wrestling (MLP) shared his congratulations, adding to the list of supporters celebrating this significant news.
Additionally, numerous other wrestling figures such as Tony Nese, Justin Roberts, Harley Cameron, Kip Sabian, and Colt Cabana interacted with the Instagram post, showing their appreciation and support.
The Reason Behind Nigel McGuinness’ In-Ring Retirement
Prior to stepping away from active competition in 2011, Nigel McGuinness was regarded as a top in-ring talent. In a candid interview with TV Insider, he disclosed that his departure from wrestling was primarily motivated by financial concerns rather than injury.

“The truth of the matter is when I stepped away from wrestling, it was purely because I couldn’t make a living as a wrestler anymore. I could have gone back to Ring of Honor and wrestled that style, but I wouldn’t have made enough money to even afford health insurance, let alone save for the rest of my life. That style in Ring of Honor just wasn’t doable. WWE wasn’t interested in me because of an old arm injury, even though it was perfectly healed. I didn’t want to go back to TNA given what happened there. That was it. There was no AEW or anywhere else to make a living wrestling. I had no choice,” Nigel said.
Though he retired in 2011, McGuinness has since returned to wrestling, notably participating in matches at All In 2024 and continuing his involvement with AEW. As he balances this wrestling return with the upcoming expansion of his family, the future holds many possibilities for him both professionally and personally.
The Broader Impact of McGuinness’ News on the Wrestling Community
Nigel McGuinness’s personal announcement and his ongoing wrestling activities have reinvigorated interest in his career. Support from peers such as Dustin Rhodes and others demonstrates the strong connections within the wrestling world, reinforcing the significance of this moment in his life. Observers and fans alike will be watching how McGuinness manages this important phase as a father-to-be amid his wrestling commitments.
