Will Ospreay, one of AEW’s premier talents, has revealed that he is suffering from two herniated discs in his neck, casting doubt on his availability for upcoming AEW events, including the highly anticipated AEW x NJPW: Forbidden Door pay-per-view. Despite the seriousness of the injury, Ospreay remains hopeful about a comeback, but recent backstage reports suggest he may be sidelined longer than initially expected.
On the July 16 episode of AEW Dynamite, Ospreay surprised fans with an in-ring update on his medical status. He candidly disclosed that his neck issues predated his match at AEW All In: Texas but worsened following a brutal post-main event attack by the Death Riders. After the incident, Ospreay was rushed to the emergency room, where doctors diagnosed him with two herniated discs pressing on his spinal cord[2].
Herniated discs occur when the soft material inside the spinal discs pushes out through a tear in the tougher exterior, potentially causing pain, nerve issues, or mobility problems. In Ospreay’s case, the discs are in his neck, a delicate and high-risk area for injury in wrestling.
Despite the alarming diagnosis, Ospreay delivered encouraging news. He told the live AEW crowd, “every doctor I’ve spoken to says it’s treatable,” and expressed hope to return in time for Forbidden Door, scheduled for August 24 in England—his home country and the scene of many career milestones, including his reign as IWGP World Heavyweight Champion in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)[2][4].
However, the situation appears more complex behind the scenes. According to a Wrestling Observer report cited by Sports Illustrated, Ospreay’s injuries are worse than originally thought, prompting uncertainty about his recovery timeline[1]. Following All In: Texas, where he endured a gruesome spot involving a chair wrapped around his head and a stomp from Claudio Castagnoli, Ospreay was stretchered out, signaling the severity of the angle but also the real risk to his health.
Sources close to AEW indicate that Ospreay is scheduled for additional medical evaluation in the United States to better assess his condition. These next steps will be critical in determining whether he can meet the ambitious target of returning for Forbidden Door or if a longer recovery is necessary[1].
Industry insiders familiar with the severity of herniated discs warn that recovery can vary widely. While some patients see significant improvement in 6 to 8 weeks with appropriate physiotherapy and treatment, others face months or even the risk of spinal fusion surgery, potentially jeopardizing a pro wrestler’s career[3]. Given wrestling’s physical demands, the wellness and long-term health of a performer like Ospreay remain paramount.
Will Ospreay’s role in AEW has been significant throughout 2025. He reached the finals of the Owen Hart Cup Tournament, fell to AEW World Champion Hangman Adam Page, and scored a notable victory alongside Swerve Strickland to dethrone The Young Bucks as AEW World Tag Team Champions at All In[1]. Beyond AEW, Ospreay has carried dual prestige from NJPW, bridging fans across promotions and boosting AEW’s profile internationally.
The positive medical outlook and AEW’s support infrastructure—featuring advanced physical therapy and specialist care—offer a hopeful path to recovery[4]. According to sources close to the wrestler, Ospreay is receiving state-of-the-art treatment, and AEW management, including President Tony Khan, are optimistic about his healing process[3][4].
Fans now await formal updates following his upcoming US doctor’s visit. Should Ospreay miss Forbidden Door, it would be a major storyline and promotional setback, as cross-promotional events between AEW and NJPW are crucial showcases drawing worldwide attention.
In summary:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Injury | Two herniated discs in neck pressing on spinal cord |
| Announcement Date | July 16, 2025 AEW Dynamite |
| Injury Cause | Post-match attack at All In: Texas, pre-existing neck condition |
| Recovery Status | Treatable, hopeful for return by August 24 Forbidden Door |
| Medical Evaluation | Scheduled upcoming examination in the United States |
| Backstage Reports | Injury more severe than originally expected, possible extended absence |
| AEW Role 2025 | Owen Hart Cup finalist, AEW Tag Team Champion (with Swerve Strickland), former AEW International Champ |
| Risk Factors | Potentially lengthy recovery, possibility of surgery |
| Official Optimism | Doctors and AEW remain hopeful for recovery |
According to a WWE insider familiar with Ospreay’s situation, “Will is one of the toughest competitors in the business, but with injuries of this magnitude, he must prioritize health over the ring. AEW is making sure he has the best care possible, and everyone hopes he’ll be back stronger.”
As the wrestling world monitors developments, Will Ospreay’s recovery trajectory will be crucial not just for his career but for AEW’s upcoming events and storylines that rely heavily on his aerial talent and international star power.
Stay tuned for more updates as Ospreay’s medical status evolves in the coming weeks.
