British independent wrestler Michael Oku recently shared how Speedball Mike Bailey played a crucial role in his growth during his appearances in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Oku’s recent performances included teaming with Bailey and Kevin Knight at the Forbidden Door event on August 24 and facing Kazuchika Okada for the AEW Unified Championship Eliminator on September 13’s Collision episode. Throughout these high-profile matches, Speedball Mike Bailey provided vital guidance that helped shape Oku’s success in AEW.
Support from Bailey During Key AEW Matches
Michael Oku acknowledged that Bailey has been a constant source of feedback and advice throughout his wrestling career, even before their time in AEW. Oku explained that while he seeks opinions from various wrestlers at events, Mike Bailey is the person he turns to regardless of presence. This longstanding relationship, which has lasted six to seven years, has been instrumental in Oku learning how to deliver quality matches in the ring.
“What’s been very useful is that just by happenstance, he’s been there, either literally in the ring or backstage for a lot of my pivotal matches so that I can bounce ideas off him before I have my matches.”
– Michael Oku
Bailey’s Role in Oku’s Forbidden Door Tag Team and Facing Okada
Oku highlighted Bailey’s direct involvement in his recent AEW bouts, particularly the tag team match at Forbidden Door held at The O2 Arena. As his tag partner, Bailey was keenly aware of Oku’s strengths and worked to ensure Oku was showcased effectively. This collaboration brought significant attention to Oku’s capabilities on a major AEW stage.
When Oku discovered he was set to wrestle Kazuchika Okada, he immediately sought Bailey’s support, emphasizing that Bailey was his first and only choice for guidance ahead of such a pivotal contest.
“When I found out I was wrestling (Kazuchika) Okada, I literally ran straight to him, I didn’t go to anyone else. I went straight to him being like ‘Hey, help me.’ That’s my guy right there, Speedball.”
– Michael Oku
Oku’s AEW Future and Contract Status
Ahead of the Forbidden Door event, Oku revealed that he did not hold an exclusive contract with any other wrestling promotion at the time. He also discussed the potential for signing with AEW in the future, reflecting his optimism about continuing to grow within the company. This openness suggests that Oku’s relationship with AEW, supported by Bailey’s mentorship, could lead to further opportunities.
Significance of Bailey’s Mentorship in AEW and Beyond
Speedball Mike Bailey’s consistent support and encouragement have been key in helping Michael Oku transition from independent wrestling circuits to bigger platforms like AEW. Bailey’s experienced insight steered Oku through some of his most important matches, highlighting the importance of mentorship in professional wrestling. As Oku advances his career, this partnership exemplifies how veteran wrestlers can nurture emerging talents, influencing both in-ring performance and career trajectory.
Moving forward, Michael Oku’s rising prominence in AEW, bolstered by Speedball Mike Bailey’s guidance, positions him as a wrestler to watch closely in the competitive landscape of professional wrestling.
