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Will Ospreay: The Rise of a Wrestling Phenomenon
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Will Ospreay, an English professional wrestler known for his high-flying style and nicknamed "The Aerial Assassin," has made a significant impact in the wrestling world, holding championships in major promotions like All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW).
Early Life: Wrestling Inspiration
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William Peter Charles Ospreay was born on May 7, 1993, in the Havering borough of London, England.
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His journey into professional wrestling began after watching a three-way match featuring AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, and Samoa Joe at TNA's 2005 Unbreakable event, which inspired him to pursue a career in the ring.1
Before receiving formal training, Ospreay engaged in backyard wrestling with his friend Kip Sabian, honing his high-risk style that would later become his trademark.1
He eventually received professional training at Lucha Britannia's London School of Lucha Libre in Bethnal Green, setting the foundation for his future success on the independent circuit and in major promotions like New Japan Pro-Wrestling and All Elite Wrestling.1
Ospreay has been open about his neurodivergence, disclosing that he is dyslexic, has been diagnosed with ADHD, and believes he may be autistic.1
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Breakthrough: NJPW Debut
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Will Ospreay's breakthrough came on the independent circuit, where his high-risk style and innovative moves quickly gained attention. His performances in RevPro and Progress Wrestling led to his NJPW debut in 2016, recommended by AJ Styles. Ospreay's career skyrocketed with acclaimed matches against wrestlers like Zack Sabre Jr. and Hirooki Goto. His victory in the 2016 Best of the Super Juniors tournament marked a significant milestone, leading to multiple IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship reigns. Ospreay's transition to heavyweight in 2020 culminated in winning the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestle Kingdom 15, solidifying his status as a top-tier wrestler. His matches consistently receive high ratings from Dave Meltzer, with a record 39 matches rated 5 stars or above, showcasing his ability to deliver exceptional performances across various promotions and against diverse opponents.
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Will Ospreay (Photos)
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Ospreay's Wrestling Career
Will Ospreay's career has been marked by rapid ascension and notable achievements across various promotions. Here's a concise timeline of his key career milestones:
Throughout his career, Ospreay has consistently delivered high-quality matches, earning a record 39 five-star ratings from Dave Meltzer
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2012 | Debuted in a four-way match at BritWres-Fest 1 |
| 2016 | NJPW debut; won Best of the Super Juniors tournament 1 |
| 2019 | Won NEVER Openweight Championship; transitioned to heavyweight division 1 |
| 2021 | Won IWGP World Heavyweight Championship; New Japan Cup winner 1 |
| 2022 | Lost RevPro Undisputed British Heavyweight Championship after 919-day reign 1 |
| 2023 | Acclaimed matches against Kenny Omega and Chris Jericho 2 |
| 2024 | Signed with AEW after NJPW contract expiration 1 2 |
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. His high-risk style and innovative moves have made him a standout performer in promotions like NJPW, RevPro, and AEW, facing top talents such as Zack Sabre Jr., Hirooki Goto, and Jay White in acclaimed matches1
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On-Screen Wrestling Appearances
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | London Rampage | Himself |
| 2019 | AEW Dynamite | Wrestler |
| 2017 | NJPW King of Pro Wrestling 2017 | Wrestler |
| 2017 | RIPTIDE: The Storm | Wrestler |
| 2017 | NJPW Destruction in Kobe 2017 | Wrestler |
| 2024 | AEW Collision | Wrestler |
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Ospreay has also participated in numerous New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) events, including the King of Pro Wrestling and Destruction in Kobe in 2017.2
His wrestling career has taken him to various promotions and events, showcasing his high-risk style and innovative moves in matches against top competitors like Zack Sabre Jr., Hirooki Goto, and Jay White.4
In 2024, Ospreay continued to expand his presence in American wrestling with appearances on AEW Collision.3
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Will Ospreay's Awards and Honors
Will Ospreay's exceptional performances and achievements have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. The following table highlights some of his most notable awards and honors:
Ospreay's high-risk style and innovative moves have contributed to his record-breaking 39 matches rated 5 stars or above by Dave Meltzer
| Year | Award | Category |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | NJPW | Best of the Super Juniors Tournament Winner |
| 2019 | NJPW | Best of the Super Juniors Tournament Winner |
| 2021 | NJPW | New Japan Cup Tournament Winner |
| 2017 | Defiant Wrestling | Match of the Year (vs Drew Galloway) |
| 2016-2019 | Wrestling Observer Newsletter | Best Flying Wrestler |
| 2019 | Wrestling Observer Newsletter | Most Outstanding Wrestler |
| 2020 | RevPro | British Heavyweight Championship (Longest reign) |
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. His acclaimed matches against top competitors like Zack Sabre Jr., Hirooki Goto, and Jay White at events such as Wrestle Kingdom and Dominion have solidified his reputation as one of the best wrestlers in the world1
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. Ospreay's success spans across various promotions, including NJPW, RevPro, and AEW, showcasing his versatility and drawing power in the wrestling industry1
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Will Ospreay's Interviews (Videos)
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Will Ospreay's Personal Life
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Will Ospreay has been open about his neurodivergence, disclosing that he is dyslexic, has been diagnosed with ADHD, and believes he may be autistic.
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Ospreay's commitment to his craft has led to numerous successful title defenses and appearances in high-profile events like Wrestle Kingdom and Dominion. Despite the physical toll of his high-risk style, which has resulted in injuries throughout his career, Ospreay has maintained close friendships with fellow wrestlers such as Zack Sabre Jr. and Mark Davis.2
His decision to sign with AEW in 2024 was influenced by his desire to stay close to his family, highlighting the importance of personal connections in his life and career choices.3
Moreover, Ospreay has been in a long-term relationship with fellow wrestler Bea Priestley. She has always been a significant part of his life, providing support and companionship throughout his career.3 sources
Closing Thoughts on Will Ospreay
From his early days on the independent circuit to becoming a multi-time IWGP champion, Ospreay has consistently pushed the boundaries of in-ring performance. His rivalries with wrestlers like Zack Sabre Jr. and successful title defenses at prestigious events such as Wrestle Kingdom and Dominion have cemented his status as one of the industry's elite performers.
Despite facing injuries throughout his career, Ospreay's resilience has allowed him to triumph in tournaments and deliver memorable matches against top competitors like Adam Cole and Juice Robinson. His appearances on shows like AEW Collision and his work in promotions like RevPro demonstrate his versatility and global appeal. Ospreay's partnerships with talents such as Mark Davis and his encounters with legends like Bryan Danielson have further enriched his legacy. As he continues to evolve and take on new challenges, Will Ospreay remains a pivotal figure in shaping the future of professional wrestling, inspiring a new generation of performers with his innovative style and unwavering dedication to the craft.
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