Gail Kim recently addressed a controversial exchange on the social media platform X involving Kenny Omega, sparked by her comments about former AEW Women’s World Champion Riho. The conversation unfolded after Kim shared her thoughts on Riho’s matches and appearance, drawing responses from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. This interaction highlights tensions around interpretation and communication in wrestling discussions online.
Initial Comments Spark Debate Over Riho’s Presentation
Kim expressed discomfort with Riho’s matches, indicating that the camera work felt inappropriate and noting her concern about Riho’s attire, describing it as resembling that of a very young girl. She also remarked on Riho’s small stature, questioning how she could compete against larger female wrestlers in the division. These observations prompted reactions among wrestling fans and industry figures, including Kenny Omega.
Kenny Omega’s Cryptic Reply on X Triggers Further Conflict
In response, Omega posted a message on X stating,
Another day and another ‘legend’ doing the splits on it for the yearly TKO gift basket…
This comment was perceived as an indirect and dismissive jab toward Kim’s opinions, leading to her own clarification and rebuttal.
Kim Clarifies and Condemns Omega’s Remarks
Kim countered Omega’s tweet with a clear statement:
If you’re trying to beat around the bush and misinterpret things like the rest of the yahoos, let me clarify that you are wrong.
During her appearance on the Huge Pop podcast, she expressed frustration that Omega did not tag her or message her directly, which would have eliminated uncertainty about who his post targeted. She further described Omega’s comment as very derogatory and shared her confusion over the phrase about doing splits for TKO, saying,
…He was probably reading things online and believing the AEW fans who twisted all the messaging, in my opinion, I don’t know. Maybe he did read my original answer. But, to say I do the (splits)… I didn’t even know what that meant at first. I’m like, ‘What do you mean I do the splits for TKO?’ I’m like, ‘What is he talking about?’
Kim Emphasizes Context and Addresses Criticism
Throughout the interview, Kim maintained that her remarks were not intended as a criticism of Riho herself, but rather reflected her discomfort with a specific segment she had seen when AEW launched. She mentioned that she no longer watches AEW regularly but continues to support some wrestlers on that roster. Kim also rejected calls from critics such as Dave Meltzer to apologize for her remarks, describing those demands as just ridiculous.
Reconciliation with GCW’s Brett Lauderdale
Kim also spoke about resolving misunderstandings with GCW owner Brett Lauderdale, following her comments about deathmatches and a related documentary produced by A24. She admitted she was unaware of the documentary’s production and that she has never been a fan of deathmatch wrestling styles, emphasizing a mutual understanding was reached following the exchange.
Implications for Dialogue in Wrestling Communities
This public dispute underscores broader challenges around communication and opinion-sharing among wrestlers, fans, and critics in the digital age. As social media facilitates immediate reactions, misunderstandings and tensions frequently arise, affecting reputations and relationships. Kim’s call for clearer and more respectful dialogue suggests a need for more direct communication to prevent misinterpretations and reduce conflict within wrestling circles.
Another day and another “legend” doing the splits on it for the yearly TKO gift basket… 🥱
— Kenny Omega (@KennyOmegamanX) September 24, 2025
