Tony Khan Will Ospreay Return is confirmed for 2026, following a significant break after Ospreay last stepped into the ring at the AEW-NJPW Forbidden Door event in London in August 2025. Competing as part of the babyfaces team in the Lights Out Steel Cage match, Ospreay played a key role in the victory, with Hiroshi Tanahashi securing the winning pinfall against Matt Jackson. The event held special meaning for Ospreay, who experienced a heartfelt connection with his hometown crowd before the mood turned dramatically.
After the memorable match, Will Ospreay’s celebration was cut short when the Death Riders launched a brutal attack. Jon Moxley singled out Ospreay, targeting his neck with a vicious move involving a steel chair, while Ospreay’s teammates could only watch from outside the cage. This violent angle was more than storyline; it was intended to write off the 32-year-old star due to a real neck injury he had been managing. Ospreay soon underwent surgery in September, later confirming to fans via Instagram that he was focused on his recovery and aiming for a full comeback.
Tony Khan Addresses Ospreay’s Comeback Timeline
AEW President Tony Khan provided an update on Will Ospreay’s future during an interview with Adrian Hernandez on the “Unlikely” podcast. When asked directly about Ospreay’s recovery and plans for a return, Khan expressed optimism but emphasized that a precise timetable for Ospreay’s comeback remains uncertain. He assured fans and the AEW roster that Ospreay is expected to return in 2026, though the exact month has yet to be determined.
Well, I was just talking to him on my way over here to do this interview, actually. He’s doing better, and I’m very grateful.He’s been out since Forbidden Door, which was a huge success for us in London. And Will Ospreay is recovering from serious neck injuries.And I’m very grateful that Will Ospreay is in AEW. And I’m also very grateful that he’s recovering and he will be back in 2026. I can’t say exactly when, but I can tell you that in 2026, he will be back. And we’re so excited to have Ospreay here. [H/T: Ringside News]
This statement from Tony Khan, the driving force behind All Elite Wrestling, reaffirms the company’s commitment to Ospreay’s well-being and emphasizes the anticipation surrounding his eventual in-ring return.
Wrestling Community Reacts to Ospreay’s Injury and Future
Will Ospreay’s absence has generated wide interest and speculation within the wrestling world. Following his surgery, Ospreay kept fans updated on his progress, noting he was steadily recovering and looking forward to competing again. The injury and subsequent layoff echoed throughout AEW, with Ospreay’s teammates left stunned after the in-ring attack and fans rallying in support of his journey back to the squared circle.
In addition to reactions from within AEW, former WWE Hall of Famer JBL has weighed in, forecasting a possible move for Ospreay to WWE’s Stamford-based promotion in the future. While that speculation remains to be seen, the clear message from Tony Khan is that Ospreay’s loyalty and immediate professional future remain with All Elite Wrestling.
Potential Impact of Ospreay’s Return on AEW
Will Ospreay’s eventual return is expected to have a profound effect on AEW’s landscape. His dynamic in-ring style and strong fan following, particularly in London and across the UK, make his presence essential for major events and long-term storytelling. Ospreay’s resilience throughout his rehabilitation journey signals not only a personal triumph but also a growing anticipation for high-caliber matches ahead, possibly including renewed rivalries with wrestlers like Jon Moxley and other leading stars.
The announcement by Tony Khan ensures the wrestling community that, while Ospreay’s road to recovery continues, his comeback will be a headline event for AEW in 2026, energizing fans and boosting the promotion’s popularity at home and abroad.
