AEW fans hoping to see Will Ospreay make his in-ring return in January 2026 might need to pump the brakes. Despite a recent optimistic update from his rehab team, a new report has revealed the comeback isn’t happening anytime soon.
Dave Meltzer addressed the speculation in the Figure Four Daily Update, shutting down rumors that Ospreay would be ready to wrestle in early 2026. According to Meltzer, fans misinterpreted a recovery post made by Ospreay’s therapist.
“Regarding Will Ospreay, some people brought up to me from a social media post thinking he would be back in January. That is not the case. He is hopeful of being able to start light weight workouts in January. He is a long way away from returning.”
The Misinterpretation
The post in question was shared by Saminder Singh of the Body Alignment Clinic in Rainham, Essex, on November 1, 2025. Singh noted Ospreay was progressing well at six weeks post-operation and hinted at a possible January comeback, which sparked the rumors. “@aew Allstar @willospreay 6 weeks post op and doing great! Still some way to go but we’re on the right road. Jan 2026.”
That post led to widespread belief that Ospreay was targeting a January return to the ring. But Meltzer made it clear—January only marks the potential start of gym work, not a full-scale in-ring return.
The Road To Recovery
Ospreay has been out of action since August, after a brutal Lights Out Steel Cage Match at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door ended with a beatdown from The Death Riders. He was stretchered out of the arena after having a chair stomped around his neck.
In September, Ospreay confirmed he had undergone successful neck surgery and reassured fans that he was determined to recover. “The road will be long, but it’ll be worth it to see you all again. Surgery was a success.” The former AEW International Champion has hinted he may scale back his high-flying offense once he returns, potentially marking a shift in his style as he adapts for longevity.
We wish him a speedy recovery.
