Will Ospreay has shed light on his NJPW return plans following his neck surgery and his current period of recovery from in-ring action in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). After being sidelined since August at AEW Forbidden Door, Ospreay addressed his future involvement with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), emphasizing his commitment to eventually coming back when fully healed.
Ospreay Returns for Special NJPW Events
Ospreay was last seen competing at AEW Forbidden Door in August and made his way back to NJPW for a special occasion: celebrating the retirement of Hiroshi Tanahashi at Wrestle Kingdom 20. At this event, he joined several well-known figures including John Cena, Finn Balor, and AJ Styles, who also honored the Japanese wrestling icon. Ospreay’s presence signified not only his support for Tanahashi but also his ongoing connection to the NJPW roster and its major moments.
Supporting Fellow Wrestlers amid Tension
During NJPW’s New Year Dash on January 5 at the Tokyo Dome, Ospreay appeared again, this time aiming to resolve disputes within the United Empire and Bullet Club War Dogs factions. His efforts focused on easing tensions between Callum Newman, a United Empire member and former protégé, and David Finlay of Bullet Club War Dogs. In a heated moment, Newman almost attacked Ospreay, but was restrained by fellow United Empire members, illustrating the personal and professional complexities in these storylines.
Ospreay’s Commitment to Making Things Right
Ospreay addressed the issues straightforwardly, expressing his desire to repair relationships. As he stated in a passionate message:
“I gotta put things right.”
— Will Ospreay, AEW/NJPW wrestler
This intent was reiterated through both social media and in-person statements, revealing his determination to resolve matters, particularly with Callum Newman. Ospreay’s actions and words have made clear his wish to make amends and offer support as his recovery progresses.
Plans for Returning to NJPW after Recovery
Following his neck surgery, which was reported in November to require significant time to heal, Ospreay clarified in backstage comments that while AEW remains his primary stage, he fully intends to appear in NJPW again when he is fit to compete. Outlining his plan, Ospreay stated:
“(After my return) First, there are some things I need to take care of in AEW. That’s my main battlefield, the place where I keep fighting every week. But I want to come back. Even if it’s just for two events a year, or three, or five. I definitely want to make it happen. And going forward, I want to support Callum.”
— Will Ospreay, AEW/NJPW wrestler
This statement highlights his ongoing loyalty to both AEW—where he wrestles regularly—and his willingness to travel back to NJPW for several major events throughout the year. He additionally emphasized his commitment to helping Callum Newman move forward, despite recent tensions.
What to Expect for Ospreay’s Future in Wrestling
Will Ospreay’s recovery journey and public statements have reignited interest within both AEW and NJPW fan communities. His comments suggest that, following a full recovery, he is likely to balance his schedule between top events in NJPW and regular appearances in AEW. This approach enables him to maintain a strong presence in the two prominent wrestling promotions. As his rehabilitation continues, supporters—including fans and colleagues mentioned throughout NJPW’s major events—are watching closely for updates on his impending return and the resolution of in-ring storylines.
オスプレイ「（復帰した後に）まずAEWで片付けないといけない仕事がいくつかある。それが俺の主戦場で毎週闘い続ける場所だからだ。でも俺は戻りたい。年に2大会でも、3大会でも、5大会でもいい。必ず実現させたい。そして今後カラムをサポートしたい」
全文はhttps://t.co/uFo9GpwqKJ#njdash pic.twitter.com/t3mc536PmW
— 新日本プロレスリング株式会社 (@njpw1972) January 5, 2026
I gotta put things right pic.twitter.com/9naEDcRqTB
— Will Ospreay • ウィル・オスプレイ (@WillOspreay) January 5, 2026
