Top AEW Star: “I Was Never Made By WWE”
There is a big belief in the wrestling industry that one must land in WWE to become a top star. However, a certain AEW standout has proved that wrestlers do not need the WWE machine to make it big in the pro-wrestling business.
Will Ospreay kicked off his wrestling journey at the age of 14, when he started backyard wrestling. He then made his professional debut in 2012 at BritWres-Fest. In the mid-2010s, he became a cornerstone of PROGRESS Wrestling and Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro).
He became such a sensation in the UK that WWE Hall of Famer AJ Styles recommended him to New Japan Pro-Wrestling’s junior division.
After spending eight years in NJPW, Ospreay officially joined All Elite Wrestling in February 2024, following the expiration of his NJPW contract. Since then, he has been dominating the AEW world with his high-flying aerial skills and in-ring charisma.
AEW Star Will Ospreay Takes Pride In Becoming A Top Star Without WWE
Speaking in a recent interview with Forbes, Ospreay highlighted his wrestling journey and how he transitioned from a backyard wrestler in the UK to one of the biggest names in the pro wrestling world.
Ospreay stated that he takes “pride and honor” in being someone who was “never touched” by WWE. Despite not being a product of the biggest wrestling company in the world, Ospreay claimed he has managed to become a global icon.
“I was never made by WWE. I was never touched by them. I would hold such pride and honor in knowing that someone from England who never moved away from his country was able to do that. I really hope that inspires so many of the other UK lads and lasses over there that they don’t need to compromise on their beliefs or what they want.”
“I’m proud that I stuck to my guns. This is the last thing I want. I want the responsibility of being the guy — the world champion, the main event and the guy that can be depended on.“