What's Happening?
AEW World Champion Will Ospreay recently shared a memorable moment from his match against Kenny Omega at All In: London during an appearance on 'Insight with Chris Van Vliet'. Ospreay revealed that a planned sequence, dubbed 'Plan B', involved kicking
out of Omega's signature move, the One Wing Angel, at one, followed by Omega kicking out of Ospreay's Stormbreaker at one, before the finish. However, Ospreay emphasized that the most significant and unforgettable aspect of the match was Omega allowing him to kick out of the One Wing Angel. This move had been protected for 14 years, with only Kota Ibushi, Omega's long-time tag partner, ever kicking out of it previously. Ospreay views this as one of the greatest honors and accomplishments of his career, noting that Omega chose him over other historical rivals like Okada, Tanahashi, and Hangman Page for this moment. Ospreay also commented on Omega's career, acknowledging the toll his illness has taken and expressing uncertainty about Omega's future in high-level matches.
Why It's Important?
This revelation from Will Ospreay highlights the deep respect and storytelling within professional wrestling, particularly concerning the protection of finishing moves. The One Wing Angel's long-standing protection by Kenny Omega made Ospreay's kick-out a monumental event, signifying a major endorsement and a symbolic passing of the torch from one top-tier performer to another. This moment elevates Ospreay's status within the wrestling world, cementing his position as a main event talent capable of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with legends. For fans, it adds another layer of appreciation for the match's narrative depth and the mutual respect between competitors. It also underscores the importance of such moments in building legacies and defining careers. Ospreay's comments on Omega's health and potential career winding down also bring a human element to the sport, reminding audiences of the physical demands and sacrifices made by athletes, while also hinting at future shifts in the wrestling landscape.
What's Next?
The impact of this moment will likely continue to resonate in Will Ospreay's career, solidifying his credibility as AEW World Champion and a top-tier performer. Future opponents may attempt to replicate or surpass the significance of this kick-out, further elevating the stakes in his matches. For Kenny Omega, this act of allowing Ospreay to kick out of his finisher could be seen as a definitive moment in his career, potentially signaling a transition into a more mentoring or less physically demanding role, especially given Ospreay's comments about Omega's health. This could lead to speculation about Omega's future in-ring appearances and his potential role in developing new talent. The moment also sets a high bar for future main event matches, as wrestlers and bookers may strive to create similarly impactful and memorable sequences that contribute to the long-term narrative of the sport.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate wrestling narrative, Ospreay's reflection on the Kenny Omega moment touches upon the broader themes of legacy, mentorship, and the symbolic transfer of power in competitive fields. In professional wrestling, the protection of a finisher is akin to guarding a sacred artifact, and its breach signifies a profound shift in status. This act by Omega can be interpreted as a deliberate anointing of Ospreay as a successor, a recognition of his talent and future potential. It speaks to the unwritten codes and traditions within the wrestling industry, where respect and the elevation of peers are crucial for the sport's continued evolution. Furthermore, Ospreay's acknowledgment of Omega's health struggles highlights the often-unseen physical toll of professional wrestling, prompting a deeper appreciation for the athletes' dedication and resilience, and sparking conversations about athlete welfare and career longevity in high-impact sports.
