Kyle O’Reilly Says He’s A “Really Lucky Guy” Following In-Ring Return

Kyle O’Reilly is finally back.

On the March 16th episode of AEW Collision, Kyle O’Reilly wrestled his first match in almost two years.

At one point his return appeared to be impossible. Not only was O’Reilly forced to undergo major surgery to repair a neck problem, but he also suffered from a serious “post-surgical issue” that placed his career in jeopardy.

However, the star finally returned to TV at Revolution before getting back in the ring on March 16th, where he defeated Bryan Keith.

Speaking after the match in a clip posted on social media, O’Reilly said the match reminded him how much he loves wrestling.

“In moments and times like these, I’m reminded how much it hurts to be a professional wrestler. How much it hurts to hit the mat, how much it sucks to get chopped and to get kicked. I’m reminded of why I fell in love with this sport to begin with, man. I’m reminded of how deep of a roster we have, how talented a guy Bryan Keith is. I’m reminded how great the AEW fan base is.

I know I said, you know, I mentioned at the time I didn’t want to join the Undisputed Kingdom, but that didn’t mean that I didn’t want the support of my best friends. Before I knew it, those guys were out there and they’re hugging me and it really, really felt good. I’m a really lucky guy. I get a chance to do this again.”

Kyle O’Reilly Nearly Lost It All

During an interview after returning to AEW television, Kyle O’Reilly explained that he wasn’t initially concerned about a comeback. The star recalled being unable to pick up his young daughter, describing that period as the “darkest days of his life.”

O’Reilly debuted in AEW in December 2021 after a four-year spell with WWE.

H/t to Fightful