AEW star Will Ospreay has disclosed that he is suffering from a significant neck injury, revealing his planned comeback date for the AEW X NJPW Forbidden Door pay-per-view event on August 24 in London. After an attack by The Death Riders nearly two weeks ago, Ospreay took to the July 23 episode of Dynamite to update fans on his condition and recovery timeline.
Ospreay, known as The Aerial Assassin, had been sidelined following an assault during an All In 2025 event, where he and Swerve Strickland defeated The Young Bucks to displace them from their EVP status. Later that night, while assisting Adam Page in his match against Jon Moxley, Ospreay was targeted by The Death Riders and attacked with a brutal con-chair-to move, leaving him out of action.
On Dynamite, Ospreay revealed that he has been coping with two herniated discs, specifically in the C2 and C6 vertebrae of his spine, which are impinging on his spinal cord. He shared that although he has dealt with neck problems for the past ten months, he kept the injury under wraps to
“get AEW over the finish line”
after promising teammates like Adam Page and Swerve Strickland, as well as the fans, that he would help reclaim the AEW World Championship from Jon Moxley.
With that goal accomplished, Ospreay is now focusing on the right medical treatment and rehab to ensure his return at the upcoming Forbidden Door event. During the segment, he shared a heartfelt moment with the Chicago audience and had Swerve Strickland by his side backstage.
Insights into Will Ospreay’s View on WWE Stars Joining AEW
Several months ago, Will Ospreay spoke candidly about his reservations regarding recently released WWE talent immediately transitioning to All Elite Wrestling. During an appearance on JJRBTS, Ospreay outlined his perspective, emphasizing the importance of wrestlers proving themselves across various markets before joining AEW.
“For example, one of the guys who [just came in] is Speedball Mike Bailey, who was like the Indie King at one point. He was going everywhere and putting on some of the greatest matches ever. I think that’s what we’re looking at more now instead of guys that just got let go from WWE, and my heart goes out to them all, but we’re looking for guys that are appreciative of this position, who are grafting and improving the markets elsewhere instead of they just got let go from WWE and instantly assume they can come here. Nah, go out and prove to other people you’re wanted and desired.”
—Will Ospreay, AEW Wrestler
Ospreay continued by stressing the elevated standard required to enter AEW and the value of gaining experience in other top wrestling promotions. He urged released WWE performers to refine their skills in organizations like New Japan Pro Wrestling, NOAH, and STARDOM before considering AEW as the next stop in their careers.
“My heart goes out to all of them. It should never be assumed that ‘Oh, I got let go here, I can just walk into AEW.’ Nah, bruv. The bar is too high now. I want to see all of these guys cut their teeth elsewhere and improve the houses elsewhere. Go to New Japan, go to NOAH, go to STARDOM. Go elsewhere and improve their houses before you can think ‘Oh, I’ll just come here.’ That’s just me. There are certain guys, like Swerve [Strickland] got let go from WWE and came to AEW straight away. He’s a special one. He’s special, MVP is another, he’s special. [Bobby] Lashley, special! Shelton [Benjamin], special! I want people to be like, you can’t just come walk in. I really do think the independents need it right now. They need someone to help guide this next generation to come through. That’s just me, personally. I don’t mean that in any type of disrespectful way. Right now, AEW we are the best wrestlers right now, and all those guys who have been let go, tragically, are really good pro wrestlers, but you can’t just be good anymore. You’ve got to be elite.”
—Will Ospreay, AEW Wrestler
The Impact of Ospreay’s Injury and Ongoing Recovery
The news of Will Ospreay’s neck injury sheds light on the physical toll professional wrestling can take, especially given his decision to continue competing despite a worsening condition over ten months. His injury, which includes herniated discs pressing on his spinal cord, could have led to serious complications if not carefully managed.
Ospreay’s transparency about his injury highlights a commitment not just to his own career but to the overall success of AEW. By enduring pain and pushing through challenges to achieve the team’s objectives, he has demonstrated a high level of professionalism and dedication. His planned return at the Forbidden Door pay-per-view event is eagerly anticipated by fans, who witnessed his fierce competition alongside allies like Adam Page and Swerve Strickland against formidable opponents like The Young Bucks and Jon Moxley.
This update also underscores the ongoing need for proper injury management and realistic recovery timelines in wrestling. Fans and fellow wrestlers alike are closely watching Ospreay’s progress, as it can influence how other athletes approach similar injuries in the future. His involvement in high-profile matches continues to elevate AEW’s standing, and his return will likely have a significant impact on upcoming storylines and the organization’s momentum heading into the latter half of the year.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many 5 star matches Will Ospreay?
A. Ospreay has the highest number of matches rated five stars or more by wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, with 53 matches. He is among five wrestlers who have participated in two five-star matches in one evening, which he accomplished at AEW’s Worlds End in 2024.
