In an interview with Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp, Will Ospreay opens up about his upcoming match with Hiroshi Tanahashi at NJPW Resurgence. The match is part of a tournament to crown a new number one contender for the IWGP United States Championship.
Reflecting on Tanahashi’s impact on New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), Ospreay expresses his deep respect for “The Ace” and acknowledges the pivotal role Tanahashi played in the company’s revival. Ospreay states, “This house that I live in is mainly because of the work he’d done with New Japan when they were about to file for bankruptcy… He’s done incredible things. So I do have the utmost respect for him.”
Recalling their previous encounter in the G1 Climax Tournament, Ospreay reflects on his admiration for Tanahashi’s motto of “attack for the next generation.” He shares, “I remember saying, I think the words were, ‘You can lay down your sword. I’ll take the load now.’ I think he took it as a little bit of, ‘Hey, you think I’m retiring, slow it down, I’m not.’… But this is business. This is bigger than Tanahashi. This is about regaining pride.”
Drawing a comparison between their previous match and the upcoming one, Ospreay emphasizes that this time it holds more significance for him personally. He aims to regain his pride and views Tanahashi as a stepping stone towards another shot at Kenny Omega. Ospreay remarks, “To be honest, I got my ass handed to me, man. It’s embarrassing. I’m meant to be the guy representing the company… This for me is about regaining my pride, man.”
Looking ahead, Ospreay acknowledges the challenge he will face against Lance Archer following the match with Tanahashi. He doesn’t mince his words, describing Archer as the “biggest cunt” he’s ever seen. Despite the difficulties, Ospreay is determined to emerge as the victor and earn the opportunity to face Kenny Omega for the title he lost at Wrestle Kingdom 17. He states, “It’s not going to be an easy day at the office by either standard, but it’s gotta be done. For my sake, for New Japan’s sake. It’s got to be done.”
While Ospreay acknowledges uncertainties about his future in professional wrestling, he remains committed to giving it his all. As he prepares for his match with Tanahashi, Ospreay is focused on regaining his pride and making a resounding statement in the NJPW Resurgence tournament.
H/T Fightful
Photo Credit: AEW
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