Will Ospreay's Transatlantic Wrestling Journey: AEW Star Balances Travel and Career
Will Ospreay is renowned for his high-flying acrobatics in the wrestling ring, but in real life, he has become an expert frequent flyer. The 32-year-old English wrestler, a mainstay in All Elite Wrestling's main event scene, is set to face Jon Moxley at Rogers Arena in Vancouver this Sunday as part of AEW's Dynasty pay-per-view event. This marks AEW's first return to Vancouver since May 2024, showcasing the Florida-based company's ongoing challenge to WWE's dominance in professional wrestling.
A Life in the Air: Ospreay's Extensive Travel Schedule
Living in England with his family while working for a North American promotion means Ospreay regularly embarks on transatlantic journeys. He meticulously tracks his flight time, revealing that this year alone he has taken 25 flights, spending nearly seven days airborne. "I am very comfortable in airports now," Ospreay admits. "I know where I'm going and what I'm doing. I'm afforded that luxury because I have such an amazing deal with Tony. It's always a business trip."
His travel stats are even more staggering when considering last July, when he reported 68 flights totaling 397 hours—equivalent to over 16 days in the air. Despite this grueling schedule, Ospreay maintains a positive outlook, utilizing his in-flight time for rest and recreation with his Nintendo Switch and essential comfort items like Vaseline and VapoRub.
Overcoming Injury and Personal Priorities
Ospreay's recent travel has been somewhat reduced due to a necessary surgery in September to correct two herniated discs in his neck. He only returned to full action last month, immediately diving into a storyline with Moxley. This resilience underscores his dedication to the sport.
When asked about relocating to North America to simplify his commute, Ospreay firmly declines. Engaged to fellow AEW wrestler Alex Windsor, who has a seven-year-old son from a previous relationship, he prioritizes family stability. "Where do I want to bring up a kid? In a country where I don't know anything about the educational systems other than that there's an alarm that goes off if there's an active shooter in the school?" he questions. "I would never want to thrust that scary thought on a seven-year-old."
Belief in the AEW Brand and Future Aspirations
Ospreay's willingness to endure extensive travel reflects his strong belief in AEW, led by Tony Khan. The promotion has attracted top talent like Moxley, Chris Jericho, and Kenny Omega, and made headlines with a record crowd of 72,265 at London's Wembley Stadium in August 2023. Ospreay aspires to headline AEW's return to Wembley on August 30, calling it his hometown venue.
"When it comes to North American pro wrestling right now, nobody is hitting the marks that AEW is," Ospreay asserts. "It's been truly lovely to sit there while I've been hurt and watch everybody coming into form and see how everybody is pulling in the same direction."
Now back to full health, Ospreay, dubbed the "Aerial Assassin," has a clear exit strategy from wrestling. "I plan to make as much money as possible, pay off all the houses and then become a postman," he reveals. "I like the idea of the peace and being left alone on a postman walk. And I like the idea that I can say 'I once upon a time main-evented the Tokyo Dome and now I'm a postman.'"
This unique perspective highlights the complexity of a wrestler who cherishes his current career while looking forward to a simpler future. As AEW continues to grow, stars like Ospreay remain pivotal to its success, blending athletic prowess with personal resilience.
