AEW superstar Will Ospreay is gearing up for an upcoming neck surgery and has shared that the wrestling community stands firmly behind him during this challenging time.
The 32-year-old from Essex has disclosed that he’ll be having surgery to address herniated discs affecting his spinal cord, which are bringing on nerve-related problems.
This procedure leaves Ospreay’s career in question as he braces for an extended recovery after the thrilling Forbidden Door event at The O2 arena in London.
In an exclusive chat with Metro, Will expressed gratitude for the support he’s received from even those within WWE whom he has never met, all reaching out because of his neck injury. “I have folks from WWE saying, ‘If you need a doctor or any advice, I’m here,'” he shared.
“Everyone has been extremely kind, and I sincerely wish them only good things,” he added with warmth.
On the big night, Ospreay will join forces with Kenny Omega, Kota Ibushi, Darby Allin, and Hiroshi Tanahashi in a Lights Out Steel Cage matchup against Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Gabe Kidd, and The Young Bucks.
Heading into such an intense match, Ospreay feels anxious regarding the surgery that will follow. “I’m not in pain, but I know there are definitely things going on in my body that don’t sit right, and I need a professional to sort it out,” he stated candidly.
“What makes me anxious is thinking about what happens after the final bell rings. I have no idea what comes next; I’ve never been under the knife before,” he confessed.
The innovative performer admitted that he’s uncertain if his in-ring moves will be the same post-surgery, and if this is indeed the end of an era, he hopes the match on Sunday will be memorable.
“I think this match will be quite special to me. It could be my farewell to a chapter of my life that, quite frankly, I’m ready to move on from,” he noted.
Additionally, this weekend has more significance as Will’s partner and fellow wrestler Alex Windsor will also be competing in front of the London fans.
“She’s coping with the pressure exceptionally. Tony appreciates her efforts greatly, and she is destined to develop her career further,” he smiled.
“Seeing her journey and all she has overcome truly inspires me every day,” Ospreay expressed with admiration.
In another highlight of the night, Christian Cage will reunite with Adam Copeland, or as WWE fans know him, Edge. Ospreay recalls watching their on-screen breakup ages ago. “I can vividly remember that episode,” he laughed, “it’s surreal to see their reunion now.”
Will also finds wisdom in conversations with Copeland, who endured his neck problems leading to retirement before returning in the Royal Rumble of January 2020.
“Christian has been super supportive regarding my neck and my anxiety; he’s genuinely helped ease my worries,” Ospreay remarked.
He also highlighted support from legends like Bryan Danielson and AEW favorite Willow Nightingale, both of whom have triumphed over significant injuries. Despite the fierce competition, Ospreay firmly believes that camaraderie persists in wrestling.
“At the end of the day, it’s a competitive industry—everyone wants to deliver top-tier performances. But when somebody goes down, the entire wrestling family feels that loss,” he explained.
Opening up about his fears about these changes is challenging for Ospreay, whether conversing with friends or during interviews.
“It’s a tough topic for me. I’d rather not discuss it sometimes since it makes me uneasy,” he admitted. “But they act like supportive siblings, which I truly appreciate.”
While some friends have told Ospreay to anticipate feeling relief post-surgery, he’s also aware of the long recovery ahead.
“Since the age of 14, I’ve been in the wrestling ring every week. It’s going to be an unreal time in my life,” he shared with vulnerability. “Although I’m nervous, I’m determined to face whatever comes my way.”
“If Sunday is the last opportunity for me to perform how I do now, I’ll give it my all because that’s the way I want my journey to conclude,” he asserted.
Catch AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door 2025 this Sunday at 6 PM on TrillerTV.
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