WWE veteran Gail Kim has publicly criticized AEW star Kenny Omega for making what she describes as offensive remarks towards her on social media. The dispute arose after a discussion involving Riho, the first AEW Women’s World Champion, with Kim expressing discomfort about Riho’s wrestling style due to her size. Kenny Omega, a close friend of Riho, responded online, prompting a strong reaction from Kim over his “derogatory” comments.
Details of Gail Kim’s Criticism of Kenny Omega’s Social Media Remarks
Kenny Omega’s social media post implied that Gail Kim performed splits as part of some “TKO gift basket,” a phrase that caused confusion and offense to Kim. Omega’s support for Riho was echoed by several AEW wrestlers, but Kim took issue with the tone and implication behind his statements. Speaking on the Huge Pop podcast, Kim expressed her disappointment and frustration regarding the comments, which she felt were disrespectful to her legacy.
“Even what he said though, was very derogatory. Again, he was probably reading things online and believing the AEW fans who twisted all the messaging, in my opinion, I don’t know. Maybe he did read my original answer. But, to say I do the splits — I didn’t even know what that meant at first. I’m like, ‘What do you mean I do the splits for TKO?’ I’m like, ‘What is he talking about?’” Kim said. [H/T – 411Mania]
Gail Kim’s Relationship with AEW and Her Current Status
Following her release from TNA earlier this year, many anticipated that Gail Kim might join AEW in a backstage role, but those expectations have yet to materialize. The question of her involvement with AEW surfaced repeatedly during the debate sparked by the comments about Riho. Kim openly addressed these rumors through a post on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying her position regarding any offers from AEW.
Kim revealed that AEW reached out to her through Sonjay Dutt shortly after her departure from TNA, inquiring about her willingness to wrestle again. However, Kim firmly stated that she has retired and declined the opportunity for an in-ring return.
“The real news about what happened with AEW since people will lie etc. I was saving it for interviews but oh well it’s now. I got one text from AEW when I was terminated from TNA. It was from Sonjay [Dutt] and inquiring more about whether I wanted to wrestle. I’m retired. End of story,” she wrote.
Her comments leave some uncertainty about potential future engagements with AEW, especially given the recent public disagreement with Kenny Omega and the fanbase involved.
Context Behind the Controversy Involving Riho and Kenny Omega
Riho, as AEW’s inaugural Women’s World Champion and a Japanese wrestling star with a distinct in-ring style, has been both admired and critiqued. Gail Kim mentioned difficulty suspending disbelief during Riho’s matches due to her smaller stature, a viewpoint that triggered defense from Omega and other AEW wrestlers. The ensuing dialogue escalated into public exchanges on social media, highlighting tensions between the former WWE star and the AEW roster.
Implications for Wrestling Fans and the Industry
This feud underscores ongoing challenges in the wrestling community concerning respect and representation, especially between veterans and rising stars across promotions. Gail Kim’s vocal criticism of Kenny Omega derogatory comments highlights the sensitivity surrounding online discourse in professional wrestling. The situation reveals how social media interactions can deepen divides between performers and fanbases, affecting relationships behind the scenes and public perception.
What lies ahead remains uncertain, though Kim’s retirement status and firm stance might limit her future in-ring participation. Meanwhile, AEW continues to support Riho and maintain its roster’s strong camaraderie, leaving room for ongoing debate among wrestling audiences.
The real news about what happened with AEW since people will lie etc. Iwas saving it for interviews but oh well it’s now.I got one text from AEW when I was terminated from TNA. It was from Sonjay and inquiring more about whether I wanted to wrestle. I’m retired. End of story.
— Gail Kim-Irvine (@gailkimITSME) September 28, 2025
