Will Ospreay recently addressed criticism of his wrestling style during an appearance on Chris Van Vliet’s INSIGHT interview show. The AEW star acknowledged that his in-ring work doesn’t appeal to everyone despite his accolades.
Ospreay has accumulated 48 five-star matches from Dave Meltzer and numerous wrestler of the year awards throughout his career. Despite these achievements, he remains aware that his performance style generates mixed reactions.
During the interview, Ospreay discussed how he has modified his in-ring approach in recent years. He has maintained his high-impact style while incorporating significant spots like taking a Tombstone from the apron onto steel steps at Full Gear 2024.
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The conversation turned to how audience perception might differ if similar high-risk spots occurred in WWE. Ospreay agreed with this assessment, suggesting criticism would be less prevalent had he chosen WWE over AEW.
No [I don’t think it’s unfair]. But then if I’ve had gone there, they’d be f*cking w*nking into f*cking tissues over me. But it’s the same. That’s why you have to separate it, otherwise you drive yourself insane. I think if you have something, my wrestling is my passion, it’s my job, most importantly. But if you have something that you’re passionate about, you really don’t care about what people are saying who have never impacted your career in your entire life.
Ospreay expanded on his perspective regarding criticism directed at AEW. He emphasized the company’s significant market position despite ongoing critical commentary.
None of those people. Once upon a time, they were big hits that anyone that’s ever complained about AEW like the grifters or whatever they’re called. I don’t know if that’s the right term. That’s what everyone says. But even if they say something, it’s like they’re not impacting our show. We’re the second most profitable wrestling company of all time. That’s not talked about enough, and everyone wants to dig on it.
The former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion acknowledged that constructive feedback has value. However, he differentiated between legitimate criticism and dismissive commentary without substantive points.
I get it, there’s things that we could generally improve on and I think it’s fair to listen to some criticism. But for me, I don’t lose sleep over anyone trying to tell me how to wrestle. Because now, look at me. I’m a f*cking idiot. I know I am, but I’ve carved out this little lane for myself. I was destined to be someone that either worked in McDonald’s or pushed trolleys at Tesco’s.
Ospreay concluded by reflecting on his journey in professional wrestling. He credited his training in England and Japan along with his passion for the business as key factors in his success.
But because I grafted at this, and because I learned the trade over in England and over in Japan, and my enthusiasm, my passion comes over here, I don’t let things like, ‘Oh this is sh*t.’ Why? ‘Because it’s sh*t.’ Well, that’s not fair. If you give me criticism and you give me points that I can work on, then I’ll try my best to work on it. I’m not going to get it right away, but I think that’s the stuff that people need to speak more about.
Ospreay joined AEW full-time after his contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling expired. He has quickly established himself as one of the promotion’s top performers, engaging in high-profile feuds with Kenny Omega, Don Callis Family members, and MJF.
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