Will Ospreay Set for Medical Evaluation at AEW Dynamite as Return Process Begins – Will Ospreay is scheduled to undergo a medical examination at tonight’s AEW Dynamite in Orlando, Florida, marking an early step toward his eventual in-ring return.

According to Fightful Select, Ospreay will be evaluated backstage at the show but is not expected to appear on camera. At this time, there is still no confirmed timetable for when the 32-year-old may be cleared to compete, nor clarity on what phase of the rehabilitation process he is currently in.

Ospreay has been sidelined since undergoing neck surgery in September 2025 to address two herniated discs. The injury stemmed from his match at Forbidden Door in August, after which he was written off AEW television in storyline fashion at the conclusion of the pay-per-view. The surgery was considered significant, and AEW has taken a cautious approach with his recovery.

Despite being out of action in the United States, Ospreay has made limited appearances in Japan. He appeared at Wrestle Kingdom 20 as part of Hiroshi Tanahashi’s retirement ceremony and was also involved in an angle with United Empire at New Year Dash. Those appearances were non-wrestling in nature and did not signal an imminent in-ring return.

AEW President Tony Khan addressed Ospreay’s status during a 2025 interview with Ariel Helwani, expressing optimism while stopping short of offering a firm date. Khan stated that he hoped Ospreay would be able to return in “the first half” of 2026, emphasizing the importance of a full and safe recovery rather than rushing him back.

Additional optimism emerged roughly six weeks after the operation, when a member of Ospreay’s medical team shared on social media that he was doing “great” during his recovery. That same post referenced January 2026, which led to early speculation about his progress, though no official clearance has been granted.

Ospreay’s potential return carries major significance for AEW, given his role as one of the promotion’s top in-ring performers prior to the injury. For now, tonight’s medical evaluation represents a procedural step rather than a signal that his return is imminent, but it does indicate that progress is being made.

Will Ospreay Set for Medical Evaluation at AEW Dynamite as Return Process Begins

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