As the wrestling world continues to evolve, the latest rumors in the squared circle suggest major shifts may be on the horizon.
WWE Eyes Will Ospreay’s Free Agency
Intriguing news surrounds the future of wrestling sensation Will Ospreay as he approaches free agency in the coming months. WWE is reportedly keeping a close eye on Ospreay’s contract situation. According to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, WWE is “very, very interested” in securing Ospreay’s talents, and it seems Ospreay is open to the possibility.
Ospreay himself has hinted at the potential of stepping into the WWE ring or exploring opportunities with other North American wrestling companies. His current NJPW contract is set to expire in February 2024, sparking speculation about a bidding war, with the timing aligning with the road to WrestleMania 40.
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However, Ospreay won’t be short of suitors. NJPW will aim to retain its star performer, while AEW and Impact Wrestling also loom as viable destinations. Ospreay has already ventured into AEW and Impact, which may give those promotions an edge in the chase.
The financial aspect will undoubtedly play a significant role in Ospreay’s decision, and this prospect has added a compelling layer to his impending free agency.
Lesnar’s Absence from Crown Jewel
Brock Lesnar, one of WWE’s marquee attractions, will be notably absent from the upcoming Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia. Despite his typical significance at such premium events, Crown Jewel already boasts an impressive lineup.
This decision is in line with WWE’s strategy to save Lesnar for future shows, given the abundance of star power already advertised for Crown Jewel. Roman Reigns, LA Knight, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, Logan Paul, Rey Mysterio, John Cena, and Cody Rhodes are all set to feature in high-profile matches.
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Lesnar’s last appearance was at SummerSlam, where he shared a surprising moment with Cody Rhodes before exiting the scene. With the road to WrestleMania approaching, WWE is reserving Lesnar for a more opportune time.
CM Punk’s Potential Impact Wrestling Dilemma
Recent buzz suggested a potential collaboration between CM Punk and Impact Wrestling. However, the financial gap between what Punk earned in AEW and Impact’s usual contracts is substantial, making a long-term deal with Impact challenging.
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Sources close to Punk believe that a move to Impact is not the direction he’s leaning towards. With WWE denying talks with Punk at the moment, the prospects are uncertain. Punk’s recent appearance at an Impact Wrestling taping has sparked discussions, but it remains to be seen if a deal can be negotiated.
Although Impact may not have the budget to secure Punk full-time, a one-off match could be a possibility. Punk’s star power could provide Impact with a significant boost, potentially reestablishing the promotion in the mainstream wrestling conversation.
Stephen’s Insight:
The wrestling landscape is buzzing with major potential shifts. WWE is closely monitoring the impending free agency of wrestling sensation Will Ospreay, who may become a hot commodity when his NJPW contract expires in February 2024.
While WWE is keenly interested in securing his talents, Ospreay has also hinted at exploring North American wrestling opportunities, setting the stage for a potential bidding war, with NJPW, AEW, and Impact Wrestling vying for his services. The financial aspect will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in his decision, adding intrigue to his upcoming free agency.
Brock Lesnar’s absence from the upcoming Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia marks a strategic move by WWE to save him for future shows, given the already impressive lineup for this event. Lesnar’s last appearance was at SummerSlam, and WWE is reserving him for a more opportune moment on the road to WrestleMania.
Meanwhile, CM Punk’s potential move to Impact Wrestling faces financial challenges, with a substantial gap between his AEW earnings and Impact’s usual contracts. While talks have sparked discussions, it remains uncertain if a deal can be negotiated, though a one-off match could potentially boost Impact’s standing in the mainstream wrestling conversation.
