Will Ospreay might be closer to an AEW comeback than anyone expected.
According to a January 21, 2026 report from Fightful Select, Ospreay is scheduled to be backstage at tonight’s AEW Dynamite in Orlando—not for an on-screen appearance, but for a key medical evaluation that could mark the start of his in-ring return process.
The update notes this is still “very early in the process,” but it’s a strong sign that Ospreay may return sooner than originally expected. The former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion has been sidelined since September 2025 after undergoing serious neck surgery following AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door: London.
At the time, many assumed Ospreay could miss up to a year. However, Fightful reports that AEW officials are now hopeful he could be integrated into creative plans by spring 2026, depending on how his recovery progresses.
The new report lines up with Ospreay’s recent appearances at NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 20 and New Year Dash earlier this month, where he teased a future return to action without getting physical.
Around the time of Ospreay’s recent appearance at Wrestle Kingdom 20 in Tokyo, the belief was that he wouldn’t be sidelined as long as many severe neck injuries typically require.
AEW President Tony Khan had also recently given an update during an interview with Adrian Hernandez, stating:
“He’s doing better, and I’m very grateful… I can’t say exactly when, but I can tell you that in 2026, he will be back.”
Ospreay has remained relatively low-profile since surgery, focusing on rehab. Tonight’s backstage evaluation could be the first step toward clearing him for an official return—and fans eager to see “The Aerial Assassin” fly again may not have to wait as long as feared.
With Ospreay undergoing medical checks at AEW Dynamite, the comeback wheels are officially in motion. While there’s no set return date just yet, the timing of his evaluation, combined with optimism from AEW leadership, suggests his return could be closer than expected.
Do you think Will Ospreay should wait until he’s 100% cleared, or jump back in if he gets the green light this spring? Let us know in the comments.
