In a recent conversation with Metro UK, AEW International Champion, Will Ospreay, shed light on his experiences with neurodivergent conditions, such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. He also discussed how these conditions have positively influenced his career trajectory in professional wrestling.
Highlights from the interview are provided below:
Discussing his experiences as an autistic wrestler, Will Ospreay said, “In my journey, I find that autism has unlocked my capabilities to an extent where I believe I’m performing at a superhuman, exceptionally smart level in professional wrestling. However, to be honest, I don’t know for sure. The truth is, I navigate each day as it arrives. I strongly feel that autism has been more beneficial than harmful as it encouraged me to venture into something I am deeply passionate about, and it occupies my mind constantly. I desire everyone else to experience this same affection that I have.”
He also insists that he never planned to be a figure of inspiration for others in a similar situation: “I understand that people may look at me and realize, ‘He has the same conditions as I do, and yet he’s in the spotlight.’ I truly comprehend this. After all, I was never destined to be an electrician, having blown up about four to five kitchens in failed attempts [laughs]. It was wrestling where I found my calling, it became my fixation. And to all who are battling similar challenges and having difficulty finding joy, don’t allow these conditions to sideline you. Focus on where you want to land and steadily work towards your goal.”
Ospreay also discussed how giving promos and interviews can be a challenging task for him, “As we converse, I catch myself making errors in my speech patterns. That’s largely due to my dyslexia and ADHD, as my brain moves faster than my mouth, making it hard to keep up. This has always been part of my life. However, I feel I’m making progress since I’ve been learning and starting to pen down lines and giving it my best shot even though it still triggers my anxiety.”