Tag: Kenny Omega

Omega vs. Okada Set for AEW All In 2025 in Blockbuster Title Unification Match

AEW just raised the stakes for All In 2025 in a massive way — and fans are already responding.

On this week’s AEW Summer Blockbuster special, it was officially announced that Kenny Omega will go one-on-one with Kazuchika Okada in a high-stakes title unification match, pitting the AEW International Championship against the AEW Continental Championship. The winner will walk out of Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas as the inaugural AEW Unified Champion.

According to Fightful Select, this dream clash has been in the works for nearly a year, with AEW reportedly locking in plans for Omega vs. Okada as far back as December 2024 — before Omega’s recent return to New Japan Pro Wrestling. The match not only reunites two of the most iconic rivals of the last decade, but also repositions AEW’s mid-card titles under a single, more prestigious banner.

While some speculated the new belt might carry the historic “Intercontinental” label, sources say AEW never seriously considered that name. Instead, the AEW Unified Championship is internally viewed as a major title — not just a mid-card placeholder, but a division-defining accolade meant to sit just beneath the World Championship in prominence.

And the announcement is already paying off. AEW reportedly moved over 1,400 additional tickets for All In 2025 in the week following the reveal — a clear sign that the Omega-Okada rivalry still draws major attention.

For fans worried about the fate of the Continental Classic tournament — don’t be. Despite the title merger, AEW is expected to continue the annual tourney in future years, likely with new stakes or perhaps feeding into the Unified title picture.

With two of the best wrestlers of this generation set to collide on one of AEW’s biggest stages, All In 2025 is shaping up to be another can’t-miss moment in wrestling history. The road to All In Texas just got a lot more epic.

Kenny Omega Nearing Return: AEW Comeback Expected Before NJPW Match

After spending all of 2024 sidelined with diverticulitis, former AEW World Champion Kenny Omega is finally set for an in-ring return. Omega’s first official match back will see him face NJPW STRONG Openweight Champion Gabe Kidd at Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, 2025, in the iconic Tokyo Dome. But while fans eagerly await Omega’s return to Japan, reports suggest his comeback to AEW could happen even sooner.

According to Fightful Select, Omega’s return to AEW is likely to take place before his NJPW bout. In fact, there’s been significant internal discussion about potentially bringing Omega back at AEW’s final pay-per-view of the year, Worlds End, on December 28. Although nothing has been officially confirmed, this would be a monumental way for AEW to close out 2024 and kickstart Omega’s next chapter.

Omega’s return has been highly anticipated, and AEW has already begun building momentum. A vignette promoting his comeback aired during the Holiday Bash edition of AEW Dynamite, sparking excitement among fans. However, AEW has noticeably avoided mentioning Omega’s Wrestle Dynasty match against Gabe Kidd, raising questions about what role Omega might play upon his return.

Interestingly, Omega’s choice to have his first match back in Japan rather than AEW is reportedly part of a goodwill gesture to New Japan Pro Wrestling. Sources close to the situation indicate that AEW President Tony Khan personally approved the decision to strengthen the working relationship between AEW and NJPW. Omega himself has also spoken about the move, expressing his desire to repay NJPW for its role in shaping his career.

Before his health setback, Omega was reportedly on track for a high-profile feud with Kazuchika Okada, a rivalry that would have reunited two of the best to ever compete in NJPW. While it remains unclear if AEW will pick up those plans, Omega’s return opens up countless storytelling possibilities, especially as AEW heads into 2025 with growing momentum.

Omega’s absence this year left a noticeable void in AEW, but his return promises to reignite the fanbase. Whether it’s at Worlds End on December 28 or another major AEW show leading into the new year, the wrestling world will be watching closely to see how “The Cleaner” re-establishes himself on the AEW stage.

Stay tuned to wrestlingnewsblog.com for further updates on Kenny Omega’s return, his role in AEW, and his upcoming clash with Gabe Kidd at NJPW’s Wrestle Dynasty. One thing’s for sure: 2025 is about to get a whole lot cleaner.

AEW’s Kenny Omega Challenges NJPW Star To Match At Wrestle Dynasty

After spending all of 2024 sidelined due to a battle with diverticulitis, AEW’s Kenny Omega is officially ready to make his long-anticipated return to the ring. The former AEW World Champion wasted no time stirring the pot, issuing a challenge that could define NJPW’s Wrestle Dynasty on January 5, 2025. Omega is prepared to face NJPW STRONG Openweight Champion Gabe Kidd, with tensions between the two already boiling over after their heated exchange at NJPW’s Power Struggle event earlier this month.

The Challenge That Shook NJPW

In an interview with NJPW1972.com, Omega opened up about the incident with Kidd and expressed his desire to resolve their issues in the ring. Omega emphasized his respect for the business and the relationship between AEW and NJPW while laying the groundwork for a monumental clash.

“I’d like to address recent circumstances, and things that have happened with Gabe Kidd,” Omega stated. “I’ve had time to reflect after Power Struggle, and I feel I would regret not being able to make things right. I would hate for this situation to cause a rift between AEW and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. So after conversations I’ve had with President Tanahashi and other executives in NJPW, I’ve decided that if New Japan requests it, if Gabe requests it, and if the fans want it, then I will wrestle Gabe Kidd, as a professional, at Wrestle Dynasty January 5.”

This public challenge now puts the ball squarely in Kidd’s court. Known for his brash attitude, Kidd has already been vocal about his disdain for Omega, criticizing the former AEW star for his supposed arrogance during his NJPW appearances. With Wrestle Dynasty just weeks away, all eyes are on Kidd to see if he will accept what could be the biggest match of his career.

Plans Shift for Wrestle Dynasty

Omega’s challenge has not only captivated fans but also shaken up the plans for January 5. Omega was initially rumored to team up with NJPW legend Hiroshi Tanahashi to face The Young Bucks in a high-profile tag match. With Omega now setting his sights on Kidd, it appears those plans have been shelved—or perhaps transformed into a different storyline altogether. The Young Bucks, former AEW World Tag Team Champions, have already confirmed their participation in Wrestle Dynasty, though their opponents remain a mystery.

A New Year, A New Chapter for Omega

Omega’s return marks a significant moment not only for NJPW fans but for professional wrestling as a whole. Having been absent for an entire year due to illness, his comeback is expected to reignite his storied career while potentially solidifying his legacy in NJPW. A clash with Gabe Kidd offers an opportunity for both men to showcase their skills on one of wrestling’s biggest stages.

As the road to Wrestle Dynasty heats up, Omega’s challenge has set the stage for what could be one of the Tokyo Dome’s most talked-about matches. Will Gabe Kidd step up and seize the opportunity, or will Omega’s return take a different twist? Wrestling fans will have their answer soon enough.

AEW’s Kenny Omega Explains How His Diverticulitis Could Be ‘Blessing In Disguise’

Kenny Omega is no stranger to wrestling fans worldwide. As a cornerstone of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Omega’s dynamic in-ring style and gripping storytelling have made him one of the industry’s most respected figures. But for the past several months, fans have felt his absence following a diagnosis of diverticulitis, a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition that forced him out of action. Now, as he nears his return, Omega is reflecting on his time away, calling it a “blessing in disguise.”

Diverticulitis is a painful and potentially dangerous condition that affects the digestive system, causing inflammation in the intestines. For Omega, this diagnosis meant a significant break from wrestling. It was not only a physical setback but also a difficult mental adjustment for someone so deeply connected to the ring.

Despite the physical toll, Omega is taking a remarkably positive outlook on his hiatus. In a recent interview with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, he described how his battle with diverticulitis has changed his perspective, allowing him to look at his career and life through a different lens. “Although getting sick in the way that I did set me back almost a year now, it’s almost a blessing in disguise,” he reflected. For Omega, this time away has offered the rare chance to recharge and reassess, something he believes will ultimately benefit his performance in the long run.

Omega also expressed how his time off has provided an opportunity to overcome his fears, specifically regarding his potential rivalry with wrestling icon Kazuchika Okada. “I looked at that man as a monster, and I can’t lie, I was scared; I can’t face this guy as current Kenny Omega,” he admitted. His words hint at the intensity of his competitive spirit and suggest that he’s using this downtime to mentally prepare for a renewed battle with Okada.

Omega’s comments have sparked speculation among fans about a possible storyline between him and Okada when he returns to AEW. Their previous encounters in New Japan Pro-Wrestling are legendary, widely regarded as some of the best matches in modern wrestling history. With Omega’s renewed focus and a clear headspace, fans are already buzzing with excitement at the idea of him stepping back into the ring with “The Rainmaker.” It seems that even in his absence, Omega is laying the groundwork for an explosive comeback.

With Omega nearing medical clearance, his return to AEW could be one of the biggest wrestling events of the year. Not only does it bring one of the industry’s top talents back into the spotlight, but it also allows AEW to further develop its narrative depth, potentially reigniting cross-promotional rivalries with New Japan. A rematch between Omega and Okada would bridge the gap between wrestling promotions, giving fans a storyline that spans years and continents.

For AEW, having Omega back is a boost in star power and a potential storyline goldmine. As fans eagerly await his return, the anticipation only grows for the exciting matches and storytelling that await. Omega’s resilience and optimism in the face of a daunting health challenge are inspiring, showing fans the power of perseverance and adaptability.

Kenny Omega’s journey through diverticulitis has shown that even the toughest challenges can yield unexpected blessings. His positive outlook, combined with his resolve to come back stronger, serves as an inspiration not only to his fans but also to anyone facing setbacks in life. As Omega nears his return, the wrestling world waits with bated breath to see him back in action — revitalized, refocused, and ready to remind everyone why he’s one of the best in the business. Whether it’s a match against Okada or a new AEW storyline, one thing is clear: Kenny Omega’s return will be nothing short of spectacular.

AEW’s Kenny Omega Announced For Upcoming NJPW Appearance

It has now been nearly a year since Kenny Omega was forced to put his wrestling career on hold thanks to a bout of diverticulitis so severe that there were concerns for Omega’s life. And save for an appearance on “AEW Dynamite” in May, where he was brutally assaulted by The Elite’s Young Bucks, Kazuchika Okada, and Jack Perry, Omega has largely focused on his recovery from surgery. There have been signs, however, that a return could be on the horizon, with Omega being spotted training with long-time tag partner Kota Ibushi, and sitting down with old New Japan rival Hiroshi Tanahashi.

But the biggest sign Omega may be getting set for an in-ring return may have just been revealed by New Japan on Tuesday evening. The promotion announced on their website that Omega will be making a special appearance at NJPW Power Struggle, scheduled to be held on November 4 in Osaka. In their announcement, New Japan pondered what would come from Omega’s special appearance, his first in New Japan since New Year’s Dash 2023, teasing it could be related to Omega’s reunion with Tanahashi earlier this month.

During said reunion, both Omega and Tanahashi expressed interest in teaming together for the first time, with Omega naming the Young Bucks as potential opponents as he looks to avenge their attack on him. Since then, there’s been speculation that the duo’s match against the Bucks could take place at Wrestle Dynasty, a joint show between AEW, CMLL, and New Japan set for January 5 in the Tokyo Dome, Whether Omega’s Power Struggle appearance will hint towards that, or signal a return to the ring sooner than anticipated, remains to be seen.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

NJPW Video Teases Reunion With AEW’s Kenny Omega At WrestleDynasty Crossover Show

Kenny Omega has faced some of the best wrestlers in NJPW history, and the promotion was where he firmly established himself as a major name in the business. On AEW television, Omega hasn’t been seen since May, when he was written off after an attack by former allies The Elite, but it seems like “The Best Bout Machine” is returning to the public eye.

The official NJPW X account recently shared a brief clip where Hiroshi Tanahashi looked back at his last match with Omega, and teased an upcoming reunion. “We wrestled in the main event in the Tokyo Dome in 2019. That match and what came out of it? It was a unique situation, so I think everyone’s curious as to how we’ve been. I’ve got a lot of mixed emotions, but I’m curious too. Excited to see him,” Tanahashi said. The two men then met in a room, and greeted one another, with the post’s hashtags teasing that their “reunion” is somehow tied to the multi-promotion Wrestle Dynasty pay-per-view, which will take place on January 5, 2025.

The most recent update on Omega’s health was one month ago, in August. The star has been suffering from diverticulitis for quite some time, and had surgery recently. His good friend and AEW star, Michael Nakazawa, claimed that “The Cleaner” had 25 centimeters removed of his colon, and had lost abdominal strength as a result, making basic tasks difficult for him. However, Nakazawa added that Omega had steadily been recovering, and that he’d been training at the time. Considering that he’s seemingly planning to appear at Wrestle Dynasty in January, it appears like his recovery has gone quicker than many anticipated.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Kota Ibushi Reveals Training Session With Kenny Omega, Teases AEW Return

Both Kenny Omega and Kota Ibushi have been absent from AEW for some time, with fans anxiously waiting as the two stars recover from significant injuries. However, those fans may not have to wait much longer. Based on a post made by Ibushi on Instagram, he and Omega are training together once again.

“World domination is just days away,” Ibushi wrote. “Had a golden practice after a long time. We are still far from done. Next AEW!!!”

The first photo shows Ibushi and Omega striking an iconic pose just outside of a ring, while the next picture features the two men making funny faces while holding onto a pair of large beverages. While it’s not clear from the photo whether Ibushi and Omega are training in Japan, the Tokyo Game Show is set to begin next week and Omega is a noted video game fan, offering a potential reason for Omega to visit.

While Omega has been an EVP in AEW since the promotion’s inception, it took his Golden Lovers partner a while longer to make it over. Ibushi signed a contract with AEW in 2023 but has wrestled just four matches so far. The former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion has dealt with a string of serious injuries over the last several years, resulting in Ibushi performing only 11 times since the end of 2021.

As for Omega, the AEW star discovered last year that he was dealing with a case of diverticulitis that could have potentially ended his life if he hadn’t sought out treatment at the right time. After months away from television, Omega returned on “AEW Dynamite” this past May, updating the audience on his health status before being attacked by his former friends in The Elite. As of now, that was the last time Omega has been seen onscreen.

Source: Wrestling Inc.

Kenny Omega Underwent Surgery For Diverticulitis

Kenny Omega recently underwent surgery for diverticulitis.

Fightful Select is reporting that the AEW wrestler underwent surgery on May 16th in New York.

Omega is expected to face a “lengthy recovery” and there are no creative plans in place for him at this time.

Source: eWn

Kenny Omega To Undergo Surgery Soon For Diverticulitis

Kenny Omega will be undergoing surgery for diverticulitis in the very near future.

On his latest Twitch stream, Omega revealed that he’ll be undergoing surgery “very, very soon.”

You can check out some highlights from the stream below:

On his health: “I did have to go back to the hospital. The good news is that I was able to get some pre-op stuff done. It’s a double-edged sword, it’s good news and bad news. The good news is, I have a wonderful doctor and he is someone who is the top of his field. He is very hard to get appointments and surgeries with. However, he’s done me a solid. I will actually be getting surgery very, very, very soon. Unfortunately for me, it means I have to leave town again. However, again, this guy is the top in his field. Even though it’s a major surgery, I do feel the most comfortable with this individual. So, even though there are always worries going into a major surgery, if there is one person I feel the most confident with, it’s this dude.

“Bad news is, it’s like an end of an era because sadly this may be my last stream in a while. I’d like to say that I can get it done and appear in front of a computer, but it probably won’t work that way. When I feel good and can travel up a flight of stairs or whatever, I’d love to hop in front of a monitor and maybe hang out and chat. That’s coming up right away. Right away, right away. A couple of days. I’m looking forward to it. A little bit of nerves, but to have such a capable doctor that I was able to have take care of this as quickly as he is, I do feel fortunate and that luck was on my side a little bit. There is good and bad. I’m feeling good about it and I’m optimistic.”

On dealing with the potential that he may not return: “There was a moment when I was dealing with this stuff where I wasn’t sure if I could come back. I was actually leaning towards, not leaning towards, but heavily considering the possibility that I might not ever (return). Had I needed to announce my retirement, I felt like I was in a place where I could have done with a smile on my face because I feel I’ve had a wonderful career and I’ve had fun doing this and I’ve met a lot of great people and I’ve been able to do things I never thought I would be able to do.”

On being optimistic about his chances: “However, now I feel like, with the individual I’m going to see and the rundown he’s given me on the way he will do the procedure, it’s so much different than what I was told here in Orlando. It opened up the door for the possibility for not only a comeback, but I might, you never know, but I might be able to come back about as good before my title run. We’re talking early days AEW level of Kenny Omega where, a little beat up from past injuries. I do believe that’s when the diverticulitis started was the beginning days of AEW. Before the broken nose, hernia, shoulder, knee, all that stuff. Those aches and pains, a lot of them still exist. I always thought the diverticulitis was my hernia. I thought the mesh had burst. It was something else completely.

“I guess it dates back to early 2020 when I started making appearances for Triple A. I’ve been fighting this thing, in the early stages, for about four years. When I actually had a herniation, I thought, ‘We got it, we nailed it, that’s the reason why my stomach hurts.’ That was just one of many problems. It’s given me a chance to consider a new Kenny Omega, repackaging, and sort of rebranding before I come back. To what degree? I don’t know, I guess we’ll see how I feel. In a perfect world, I would like to come back better than I was before. It’s not my prime; those days are done, but I want to come back differently and bring something new to the table. A lot of same these days. It’s making me sick.”

We send our best wishes to Omega for a quick and full recovery.

Source: eWn

The Elite Give Kenny Omega Vicious Beating Following Emotional Promo On AEW Dynamite

In his first appearance on “AEW Dynamite” since December of 2023, Winnipeg’s hometown hero Kenny Omega detailed his struggles with diverticulitis, up to and including doctors telling him that he was staring down the barrel of a colostomy bag at best, and way too close for comfort to flat out dying at worst when he was diagnosed at the time. And while “The Cleaner” stated that he’d love to mix it up right now if it were up to him, he admitted that doctors told him that any blunt force trauma to his abdomen could be catastrophic. Enter: The Elite, who clearly cared not about their former comrade.

The familiar sound of coins hitting the floor hit first, with longtime Omega nemesis Kazuchika Okada entering the ring and inciting a staredown for the ages with Omega asking for “a few months” so they could run back their legendary New Japan Pro-Wrestling feud under the AEW umbrella just as soon as possible. But Okada hesitated and walked away, leading to an assault from Jack Perry and The Young Bucks that culminated in an EVP Trigger. As the beatdown ensued, FTR hit the ring to prevent any further damage, but eventually, once Omega was wheeled to the back on a gurney, about to be loaded into an ambulance, The Elite struck again, tossing Omega from the gurney and onto the cement floor as a distraught Dax Harwood looked on.

Omega, who admitted to being nervous about tonight’s appearance, hasn’t wrestled since defeating Ethan Page on “AEW Collision” in early December and hasn’t been seen at all since announcing via X that he would be out indefinitely due to his diagnosis.

Source: Wrestling Inc.