AEW Max Gersh / The Commercial Appeal, Memphis Commercial Appeal via Imagn Content Services, LLC

Will Ospreay is showing why he is the future of AEW

Will Ospreay has been a hit since arriving in AEW in February. The former New Japan Pro Wrestling standout has hit the ground running despite being in new surroundings. He has already secured impressive wins against Kyle Fletcher, Konosuke Takeshita and Katsuyori Shibata. Furthermore, he is already projected as a potential fan favorite due to his charisma during promos.

During a recent episode of "The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy," the veteran shared his thoughts surrounding Ospreay's recent arrival in AEW. 

"He 100% has the potential [to be a major player]," Hardy said (h/t to Wresling Inc for the transcription). "I mean, he's an incredible performer in ring. People use that expression of 'once in a generation performer,' but he really is. He is very, very special. I also think too, he's been a good speaker. His mannerism, the way he expresses himself, has been really, really good and he just seems very believable. He seems very likable. I think he is someone that can be a huge deal, and someone that AEW can build around going forward."

Ospreay has all the talent and charisma to be a sensation in AEW. He now has a much bigger platform than he had with NJPW. He is in the American market, which could quickly establish him as a legitimate star in the industry. However, he must hope that Tony Khan books him correctly and that he's given storylines that work for his character and captivate the audience.

Between Ospreay and MJF, AEW has two younger talents with star potential. Those are the sort of building blocks Khan has been looking for. When you surround them with talent like Kenny Omega, Adam Cole and Kazuchika Okada, the future looks incredibly bright. 

Ospreay joined AEW for a new challenge and to continue his development. He could quickly be the face of a top-two wrestling promotion worldwide. Hardy is right; Khan will build around Ospreay in the coming years. He will likely go down in history as a pivotal acquisition for the company. 

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