Will Ospreay recently disclosed that a grueling 10-man Dog Pound Cage match from two years ago nearly claimed a life during the event. The match took place at NJPW New Beginning in Osaka in 2024, where the United Empire faction faced off against the Bullet Club War Dogs. During the intense contest, wrestler Henare suffered a severe head injury that required medical assessment but refused to leave the match, continuing with a bandaged head until its conclusion. Ultimately, the War Dogs secured the victory.
A widely circulated clip shows Henare, head heavily bandaged, persisting in the ring against Gabe Kidd. Ospreay revealed that both he and his stablemates urged Henare to seek medical attention, but Henare insisted on finishing, a decision that nearly cost him his life.
“He nearly died, we were all telling him to go back with the trainer. He looked at me and said, “I’m finishing this”. He taped a towel to his head fought like a f***ing warrior,” Ospreay wrote.
This match marked Ospreay’s final appearance on the NJPW roster before he transitioned to All Elite Wrestling (AEW).
Confirmation of Will Ospreay’s AEW Return in 2026
AEW has hinted at the comeback of Will Ospreay, often called the Aerial Assassin, following a period of recovery from serious neck injuries. On a recent episode of Dynamite, a video package suggested his return was forthcoming. In an interview with Adrian Hernandez, AEW President Tony Khan shared that Ospreay is progressing well and confirmed he will rejoin AEW by 2026, although an exact date has not been specified.
“He’s doing better, and I’m very grateful. I was just talking to him on my way over here. Will Ospreay is recovering from serious neck injuries, and I’m grateful that he’s in AEW, 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 him here,” Khan said.
Will Ospreay’s Influence and Anticipated Impact
Will Ospreay has become one of AEW’s most captivating performers and a fan favorite globally. His anticipated return in 2026 is expected to draw significant attention from wrestling fans worldwide. Given his previous reputation for high-risk matches and athleticism, Ospreay’s comeback could usher in a new chapter of intense competition and memorable moments for AEW audiences.
He nearly died, we were all telling him to go back with the trainer.
He looked at me and said “I’m finishing this”
He taped a towel to his head
fought like a fucking warrior https://t.co/EK027pESG7
— Will Ospreay • ウィル・オスプレイ (@WillOspreay) February 10, 2026
