Kenny Omega discusses Bayley’s supportive text message during his recent recovery from diverticulitis, highlighting an uncommon camaraderie within the wrestling world. Omega, a central figure in AEW, shared how Bayley, one of WWE’s respected Four Horsewomen, reached out during his medical absence, prompting veteran wrestlers to reflect on the rarity of true friendships behind the scenes.
Recognized as popular and respected stars in their respective promotions, both Omega and Bayley typically stand out as favorites among fans. Their status made Bayley’s approach unsurprising to some, particularly as Omega revealed the personal message while recounting his lengthy stint away from the ring due to illness. This story ignited conversations on The Wrestling Time Machine podcast, where longtime wrestling figures explored the meaning of such gestures in an industry known for competition and changing loyalties.
Wrestling Veterans Discuss Genuine Connections in a Competitive Business
Teddy Long, a respected Hall of Famer, joined co-host Mac Davis and Bill Apter to analyze Omega’s remarks, noting the significant value Omega placed on Bayley despite their lack of personal history. Mac Davis asked Long whether authentic friendships could exist in wrestling, referencing Long’s extensive experience. Long agreed, recalling a story that highlighted the fleeting nature of relationships for many in the business.
“Well, he’s made this 1-2 statement… she did text him when he was in the hospital or wherever he was, and that’s how you really find out who your true friends are. I’ll never forget it, Tony Atlas told me one time, he was talking to somebody, and he did a book or something, too, and he told me, ‘Hey man, you’re the only guy that I really talked about in my book. … You’ve really been a true friend to me.’ So, yeah… a lot of guys, once you walk out the door, they never even look back at you, and then they act like they didn’t even know you, you know what I mean? So, yeah, this is a ruthless business, man,” Teddy Long said. —Teddy Long, Hall of Famer
Within the same discussion, Sportskeeda Wrestling Senior Editor Bill Apter and veteran Mac Davis echoed the sentiment, emphasizing how rare sincere gestures are among athletes who often face career-defining rivalries. Their experiences underline that genuine acts, such as Bayley’s text, remain exceptional rather than commonplace in professional wrestling.
Current Status of Bayley and Omega in Wrestling Promotions
Bayley, identified as “The Role Model,” is presently absent from WWE programming due to storyline developments but is expected to make her return imminently. Meanwhile, Omega prepares to defend his International Championship at AEW’s Fyter Fest Dynamite against Brody King, Claudio Castagnoli, and Mascara Dorada, as anticipation grows for his in-ring comeback.
Kenny Omega Shares Behind-the-Scenes Highlights from Major AEW Victory
After returning to action, Omega recently participated in AEW Double or Nothing, joining other “babyface” stars to win the high-profile Anarchy In The Arena match. He shared a widely viewed photo on Instagram capturing his moonsault during the chaotic contest. Omega’s post, which he captioned with “Flip merchant,” further cemented his reputation for high-risk maneuvers and fan engagement.
The Anarchy In The Arena match lasted over 35 minutes, featuring Omega, Samoa Joe, Katsuyori Shibata, Powerhouse Hobbs, Swerve Strickland, and Willow Nightingale overcoming teams led by Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, Nick Jackson, Matt Jackson, and Marina Shafir.
Significance of Support in a Fiercely Competitive Environment
Kenny Omega discussing Bayley’s supportive text message draws attention to the challenges wrestlers face when forging real connections amid the demanding and unforgiving nature of the industry. Reflections from wrestling veterans like Teddy Long illuminate how moments of kindness, though rare, stand out as meaningful reminders of respect and unity despite opposing factions and company rivalries.
As Omega continues his championship pursuits and Bayley stands poised for a return, their story serves as a rare example of empathy within the tough landscape of professional wrestling, offering fans and athletes alike a lens into the human side of the sport.
