The road to recovery for Will Ospreay is progressing well, according to AEW President Tony Khan, offering a significant boost to the wrestling promotion and its fanbase. Khan provided an encouraging update on the former AEW star’s condition, signaling a potential return to the ring within the next year.
Ospreay has been sidelined since last summer due to a neck injury requiring surgical intervention. The injury initially cast doubt on his immediate future in professional wrestling, but recent developments suggest a positive trajectory. Last week, AEW aired a video package during Dynamite showcasing Ospreay’s rehabilitation process, further fueling speculation about a possible comeback. While the video didn’t pinpoint a specific return date, it highlighted the dedication and effort Ospreay has invested in his recovery.
Speaking on 107.7 The Bone, Khan emphasized Ospreay’s importance to AEW and expressed optimism about his progress. “I talk to Will Ospreay a lot and he’s doing very, very well and on the road to recovery, which is incredible news for AEW,” Khan stated. “Because Will Ospreay’s one of our greatest stars we’ve ever had. And AEW’s a better place anytime Will Ospreay is involved in any aspect of All Elite Wrestling.”
Currently, the internal goal within AEW is to have Ospreay back in action for All In 2026, scheduled to take place at Wembley Stadium this August. While acknowledging that this timeline might be ambitious, it aligns with the long-held expectation of a summer return. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reported that the organization views this as a realistic, though challenging, target.
“They aired a Will Ospreay video showing him in the hospital when he had surgery and X-rays of his neck after surgery,” Meltzer wrote. “The goal, as stated, is for him to be back at Wembley Stadium. As we’ve noted, that feels fast but all along they’ve talked about a summer return.”
Ospreay’s commitment to the sport hasn’t wavered during his recovery. He was observed backstage at the January 21st episode of Dynamite in Orlando, undergoing a medical evaluation. This appearance signaled a crucial step in his return process, demonstrating his proactive engagement with AEW’s medical team. Beyond AEW, Ospreay has maintained ties to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), making appearances in January, and has also contributed behind the scenes as a producer for Pro Wrestling Eve, a UK-based women’s promotion.
This multifaceted approach to his recovery – encompassing physical rehabilitation, medical monitoring, and continued involvement in the wrestling world – underscores Ospreay’s dedication and determination. His presence backstage at Dynamite, despite being unable to compete, highlights his commitment to staying connected with the AEW roster and contributing to the company in any way possible.
The news of Ospreay’s progress is particularly significant for AEW, which has consistently positioned him as a key figure in its roster. His dynamic in-ring style and captivating presence have made him a fan favorite, and his absence has been keenly felt by the AEW community. A successful return would not only bolster the AEW roster but also provide a significant storyline opportunity for the promotion.
While an official return date remains unconfirmed, the latest updates paint a picture of steady progress and growing optimism. The focus now shifts to Ospreay’s continued rehabilitation and his ability to meet the ambitious timeline set for his potential return at All In 2026. For AEW fans, the prospect of witnessing Ospreay back in the ring represents a significant and eagerly anticipated moment.
