After another stellar performance against Kenny Omega, Will Ospreay has the eyes of the wrestling world upon him. At AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door Ospreay defeated Omega in a critically-acclaimed match for the IWGP United States Championship.
For nearly 40 grueling minutes the two competitors went to war in an instant classic. After pushing each other to the absolute limits Ospreay eventually secured the win with his double-finisher the Hidden Blade and Stormbreaker. The match received plaudits from around the world and saw the new champion showered with praise from fans and pundits alike.
Following the event, Ospreay joined Tony Khan at the AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door Media Scrum, where he was asked questions surrounding the match, and what is next for him in the future. Answering, Ospreay revealed that he wants to establish himself as the face of NJPW, while putting on the best physical work he possibly can.
Then before any other questions could be asked he took the opportunity to praise one of his wrestling heroes and declared that he would love to get in the ring with the legend that is Naomichi Marufuji.
Will Ospreay Wants Dream Match With Pro Wrestling NOAH’s Naomichi Marufuji
I want to throw this out there while the conversation is on ‘best in the world.’ I have taken so much from a man that I completely respect and admire. I hold him to the highest regards. In September, he’s celebrating his 25th anniversary of being a pro wrestler. I’ve just got to say it; he was my idol growing up. I would love to be in the ring with Naomichi Marufuji, if that was possible. The ball is in NOAH’s court. I think we can work something out.
As mentioned by Ospreay, Naomichi Marufuji is a 25 year veteran of the wrestling business. He began his career in 1998 for All Japan Pro Wrestling. In 2000 he joined Pro Wrestling NOAH, where he would become on the promotion’s biggest stars. During his career he has held the GHC Heavyweight Championship four times as well as the GHC Tag Team Championship eight times. He has also wrestled for New Japan and ROH through out his illustrious tenure.
NJPW and NOAH have worked together multiple times over the years. Most recently all three top promotions in Japan combined for a supershow named All Together Again held on June 9th at Ryogoku Sumo Hall in Tokyo, Japan.
H/T Fightful