Will Ospreay has spoken about adapting his in-ring style following his return from neck surgery earlier in the year.
Regarded as one of the best professional wrestlers in the modern era, Ospreay’s matches are typically filled with high-impact moves, dives, and a fast pace from the opening bell. However, as has been the case with many professional wrestlers who have made their comeback following major surgery, the AEW star has needed to make some adjustments.
Speaking with Rob Wolkenbrod for Forbes, the former International Champion opened up about the alterations made following his return. Ospreay noted that a shooting star press is one move he has retired from his repertoire due to a reduced range of motion:
“It’s mainly my range of motion right now. There are so many things where I just don’t feel comfortable doing certain tricks anymore, so I’ve kind of knocked them on the head. For example, I won’t do a shooting star press anymore because that required me to really put my head back and get a good arch, and I just can’t do it anymore.”
Ospreay also addressed the possibility that his in-ring career could have ended at 32 years old. Admitting that the thought crossed his mind, considering how others have been affected, The Aerial Assassin credited his doctor in making it all possible:
“I mean, that always kind of creeped in, but I knew I was going to do everything physically possible to make this go as quickly as possible and get back in the ring. It was always a conversation, and I had great phone calls with my surgeon, Dr. Wallace, who deserves the biggest shoutout because he’s given me a second chance at having a career doing this.”
Will Ospreay Credits Tony Khan For Paying For Surgery
Continuing, Ospreay also addressed the cost of the surgery, something the British wrestler is not used to. However, thanks to AEW owner Tony Khan, Ospreay’s surgery was paid for by the company:
“I mean, 10 years ago, this was the type of thing that medically disqualified you from wrestling. So the fact that medical science has come so far, man, I’m just grateful and so blessed. And I must give the biggest shoutout to Tony [Khan] for paying for that surgery because the moment I saw that f****** bill — bro, it was more expensive than my f****** house. It was crazy.”
Ospreay was written off TV at the Forbidden Door show in London back in 2025 so that he could undergo neck surgery. With Ospreay being attacked by Jon Moxley and The Deathriders, the British star has been targeting the group following his return. However, following Dynasty, Ospreay has also begun training with The Deathriders.
Featured image: AEW
