After rising to global fame wrestling for promotions such as New Japan Pro Wrestling, Will Ospreay signed with AEW in November 2023. Though WWE showed interest, sparking some pre- and post-signing exchanges between Ospreay and Triple H, Ospreay’s choice to join AEW proved to be the right one. During his time there, he became Tony Khan’s most popular star, securing the AEW International Championship twice and winning the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament. Despite any setbacks, Ospreay stands by his decision, motivated not just by his career but also by his family, which was built amid personal tragedy.
Ospreay’s partner is fellow wrestler Alex Windsor. Their bond grew stronger through shared grief, as Windsor was previously married to Ryan Smile—Ospreay’s best friend and another wrestler—who tragically passed away in 2020 after just one year of marriage. This shared loss brought Ospreay and Windsor closer, leading to a relationship where Ospreay has taken on the role of father to Ryan’s son. In a heartfelt interview last August, Ospreay explained that his decision to sign with AEW was deeply influenced by the need to support his family in the UK, expressing respect towards WWE despite not joining them.
Ospreay candidly shared, “I really had to do this for my family, my son needs me… I’m not rude to them [WWE], I admire anyone who can do that… After all, I don’t want to uproot them.” While Triple H may have offered Ospreay a chance in WWE, it’s clear that Ospreay’s reasons for choosing AEW were stronger, showing he’s prepared to handle much more than just the wrestling grind.
Fan Take: This news is significant for WWE fans as it highlights the personal side of wrestlers’ career decisions, reminding us that their lives outside the ring heavily influence their professional paths. Ospreay’s move to AEW could signify a growing trend where wrestlers prioritize their well-being and family, potentially shifting the competitive landscape of pro wrestling.
