Will Ospreay Calls Out Kazuchika Okada for Battle In The Valley Showdown

Will Ospreay is oozing confidence as he sets his sights on capturing the coveted IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship. In a bold move to build anticipation for NJPW’s Wrestle Kingdom 18, Ospreay has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging Kazuchika Okada to a rematch at Battle At The Valley.

Ospreay’s history with “The Rainmaker” has been nothing short of tumultuous. Last year, he suffered a defeat at the hands of the Japanese superstar during the G1 Climax finals in August. However, this year brought a change of fortunes for Ospreay, as he managed to secure a victory over Okada in a B block match of the tournament in July.

As part of NJPW’s promotional efforts for the upcoming Tokyo Dome event, the AEW star, set to challenge for the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship, recently participated in an interview series on their YouTube channel.

When asked if the significance of his upcoming match had shifted since joining Tony Khan’s promotion, Ospreay remained resolute, emphasizing that he could continue what he was doing with New Japan Pro Wrestling. He then spoke of his “unfinished business” with Okada and extended a direct challenge:

“I am confident that I will walk away with this championship at Wrestle Kingdom,” declared Ospreay. “I am so sure of it that I am ready to issue a challenge right here in San Jose. I know Okada is on that poster, and we have unfinished business. While I was able to secure that win in the G1, I want to prove to everyone that I can defeat Okada. So, I’m extending this challenge right here, right now, in front of all of you. I want to face Okada in San Jose.”

Ospreay left no room for doubt regarding his commitment to New Japan Pro Wrestling, affirming that Okada would be his “first perfect defense” once he clinches the championship.

“If I explore other opportunities, I’m still keeping a firm grip on my involvement with New Japan. I want to demonstrate my unwavering dedication and commitment to the promotion. I have grand aspirations and plans to defend this championship across the globe, and Okada will be the inaugural defense of that title.”

Mark your calendars for Wrestle Kingdom 18, set to take place on January 4, 2024, at the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, Japan. This event can be watched live on NJPW World.

The main event will feature SANADA defending his IWGP Heavyweight Championship against Tetsuya Naito. Bryan Danielson will go head-to-head with Kazuchika Okada, while David Finlay, Jon Moxley, and Ospreay will engage in a thrilling triple threat match to determine the first-ever IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion. The stage is set for a wrestling spectacle like no other!

How do you think Will Ospreay’s challenge to Kazuchika Okada will play out at Battle At The Valley? Leave us a comment.