To describe the rivalry between Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay as “heated” would be doing it a disservice, with both men hell-bent on proving they’re better than the other.
In the months since Omega returned to New Japan Pro-Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 17 in January to defeat Ospreay, the issues between the pair have only become more intense. This led to one of the most highly-anticipated rematches in a number of years at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door.
The bout was everything fans could have hoped for and more, with both men refusing to take a backward step, this defiance pushed the match to incredible heights. The pair stole each other’s moves, went counter-for-counter and punch-for-punch, and blood flowed by the bucket load.
For a shade under 40 minutes, Ospreay and Omega hit each other with everything they had as the crowd spent most of the contest on their feet, applauding the increasingly ludicrous displays from the men in the ring.
When all was said and done it was Ospreay that finally earned the win, getting revenge for his loss at Wrestle Kingdom and regaining his IWGP United States Title.
Although tensions had been high going into the match, it seems that the bloody battle only increased the respect between the two men. Posting on social media in the hours after the match, Omega admitted that the better man won on the night.
“I lost and Will was the better man tonight. The US belt is in good hands. Keep Don away from it.”
For his part, Ospreay later wrote that Omega is a “once in a lifetime” performer, adding he’s “above elite.”
“Kenny Omega is once in a lifetime. There will never be anyone that will be able to master the craft the way he has. Overcoming him was legitimately the most challenging and yet rewarding task of my life. While everyone can say they’re “all elite” You can say you’re above elite.”
Kenny Omega Vs. Will Ospreay 3 In London?
Appearing at the post-show press conference, Will Ospreay was asked about potentially having a third match against Kenny Omega at All In at Wembley Stadium in August.
Interestingly, the British star said that he would “love” to appear on the show, noting that his schedule is free that day.