The main event at All Elite Wrestling's Forbidden Door pay-per-view featured intense anticipation as Will Ospreay faced Swerve Strickland in the final of the Owen Hart Foundation Men’s Tournament. The prize for the victor was a direct path to an AEW World Championship match at the highly anticipated All In event in London.
Ospreay had openly declared his ambition to compete at London's iconic Wembley Stadium, aiming to capture the world title there. Strickland, conversely, sought to derail Ospreay's aspirations and reclaim the AEW world championship for himself. Their clash quickly escalated into a brutal encounter between two of the promotion's premier talents.
A Battle of Strategies
Strickland's strategy was clear: he aimed to neutralize Ospreay's renowned speed and agility, preferring to dictate a slower, more deliberate pace. For much of the bout, he successfully stifled Ospreay's offensive bursts. However, as the contest progressed, the intensity surged, leading to both competitors sustaining visible injuries and bleeding, testament to the ferocity of their exchanges.
The two combatants, their faces streaked with blood, stood toe-to-toe in the ring, each determined to emerge victorious. Ospreay had the support of The Death Riders at ringside, while Prince Nana was in Strickland's corner, adding to the dramatic atmosphere as the match reached its climax.
The Decisive Moments
Strickland delivered his signature House Call, but Ospreay demonstrated remarkable resilience, absorbing the impact with apparent neck strength. Gathering his remaining energy, Ospreay retaliated with a Hidden Blade, followed by a lariat Hidden Blade. Despite the powerful combination, Strickland managed to kick out of the subsequent pin attempt, prolonging the battle.
Ospreay then unleashed a series of devastating maneuvers, executing a Paradigm Shift, a Death Rider, and finally a Tiger Driver. This relentless assault proved decisive, allowing Ospreay to secure the pinfall victory over Strickland. With this win, Ospreay officially punched his ticket to All In.
On the Road to All In
The Death Riders watched in disbelief and then celebrated wildly as they joined Ospreay in the ring, acknowledging his monumental achievement.
As of now, Ospreay is slated to challenge MJF for the AEW World Championship on August 30 at All In. While there remains a significant period during which the championship picture could evolve, Ospreay's immediate focus is undoubtedly set on a showdown with MJF for the coveted title.