In the high-stakes world of professional wrestling, few stars burn as brightly—or as urgently—as Will Ospreay. As All Elite Wrestling (AEW) navigates its sixth year, the promotion stands at a critical juncture: Will it cement its identity by elevating homegrown talent like Ospreay, or will it continue leaning on established names from rival promotions? The answer may determine AEW’s trajectory in the global wrestling landscape.
The Crossroads at Double or Nothing 2025
At AEW’s Double or Nothing 2025 pay-per-view, Will Ospreay faced a pivotal test in his quest to become the company’s top star. Despite a valiant effort, Ospreay fell short in the Owen Hart Foundation Tournament final against “Hangman” Adam Page, a loss that left fans and analysts questioning AEW’s long-term booking strategy . This outcome defied widespread expectations, as Ospreay had been heavily favored to win and secure a world title shot against Jon Moxley at All In Texas .
The loss underscored a recurring theme in AEW’s narrative: the tension between immediate storytelling and long-term star-building. While Page’s victory advances his redemption arc, Ospreay’s defeat risks squandering the momentum he’s built over three years—a period marked by critically acclaimed matches, character evolution, and fan adoration . As one analyst noted, failing to capitalize on Ospreay’s ascendancy could plunge AEW into an “existential” crisis, given his status as the promotion’s most compelling homegrown talent .
The Case for Ospreay as AEW’s Cornerstone
Since joining AEW in 2023, Ospreay has redefined what it means to be a modern wrestling superstar. His $1 million-per-year contract—a testament to Tony Khan’s investment—reflects his value as both an in-ring virtuoso and a cultural icon . Key achievements include:
- Unparalleled In-Ring Excellence: From his reign as International Champion to reviving the Continental Classic, Ospreay has delivered consistently groundbreaking performances, blending athleticism with storytelling .
- Character Evolution: Once known primarily for his high-flying style, Ospreay has matured into a multifaceted character. His feud with Kyle Fletcher showcased emotional depth, blending mentorship and betrayal in a storyline praised for its “f***ing quality” .
- Global Appeal: As a British wrestler with deep ties to New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW), Ospreay bridges international markets, a strategic asset as AEW expands its global footprint .
Critically, Ospreay represents AEW’s best chance to cultivate a homegrown superstar. Unlike previous AEW champions—many of whom are WWE alumni—Ospreay’s rise has unfolded almost entirely within Tony Khan’s ecosystem. As Bully Ray recently declared, Ospreay is “the face of AEW,” embodying the promotion’s potential to rival WWE’s star-making machinery .
AEW’s Identity Crisis: Homegrown vs. Imported Stars
AEW’s reliance on ex-WWE talent has been both a strength and a liability. While names like Jon Moxley and Bryan Danielson brought instant credibility, their dominance has overshadowed emerging stars. Ospreay’s delayed push exemplifies this tension. Despite his accolades, he’s been kept largely separate from the world title scene, a decision critics argue has stifled AEW’s ability to create its own legends .
This dynamic extends to talent acquisition. Ospreay himself has advocated for stricter standards, urging released WWE wrestlers to “improve the houses” of indie promotions before seeking AEW contracts. “The bar is too high now,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for organic growth over quick fixes . This philosophy aligns with AEW’s broader challenge: balancing star power with sustainable development.
Ospreay’s Vision: Building a Legacy Beyond the Ring
Ospreay’s influence extends beyond his in-ring work. In interviews, he’s positioned himself as a guardian of AEW’s identity, advocating for a roster that prioritizes merit over pedigree. His recent promo on AEW Dynamite—a masterclass in vulnerability and ambition—highlighted his desire to “be the guy” who elevates the company . This narrative resonates with fans weary of WWE retreads, positioning Ospreay as a symbol of AEW’s untapped potential.
His partnership with Kyle Fletcher further illustrates this ethos. By mentoring Fletcher—a 26-year-old he calls “five years away from his prime”—Ospreay is investing in AEW’s future while solidifying his own legacy . Such efforts underscore his dual role: top star and architect of AEW’s next generation.
The Road Ahead: Now or Never
AEW’s handling of Ospreay in the coming months will define its trajectory. Key considerations include:
- Capitalizing on Momentum: Despite the Double or Nothing loss, Ospreay remains AEW’s most bankable asset. A summer feud with Jon Moxley—potentially culminating in a title win at All In Texas—could reignite his ascent .
- Avoiding Overcomplication: Analysts warn against “side quests” that delay Ospreay’s coronation. His character arc demands urgency, not meandering subplots .
- Leveraging Cross-Promotion: Ospreay’s ties to NJPW offer opportunities for interpromotional matches, enhancing AEW’s global appeal while maintaining his star power .
Conclusion: A Test of Conviction
Will Ospreay’s journey is more than a wrestling storyline—it’s a litmus test for AEW’s vision. By embracing him as its cornerstone, AEW can silence critics, differentiate itself from WWE, and prove its ability to cultivate homegrown legends. Conversely, hesitation risks alienating fans and ceding ground in the “Wednesday Night Wars.”
As Ospreay himself declared: “I want to sing from the high heavens that this is the best professional wrestling on the planet” . For AEW, the time to amplify that chorus is now.
