AEW star Kenny Omega has found himself on the sidelines after a recent hospitalization sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. Omega, who announced his indefinite hiatus on December 15, 2023, on Twitter, cited diverticulitis as the cause for his unexpected break from the squared circle, leaving a gaping hole in both AEW’s roster and upcoming storylines.
This unfortunate turn of events has already disrupted AEW’s creative plans, particularly impacting a highly anticipated world tag team title match. As per the roster, Kenny Omega and Chris Jericho would have faced Ricky Starks and Big Bill at Worlds End on December 30, 2023, at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. However, the match has now been abruptly affected by unforeseen circumstances.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer provided an update on Kenny Omega’s health. He stated that the star is on the road to recovery. However, Meltzer was quick to caution that Omega’s return to in-ring action remains uncertain.
He said, “It’s been six days since Omega was hospitalized. And by the way, he is doing better, but he’s got a long road ahead of him. I’m going to go with the idea that Omega is out for a long, long time, so I’m not going to figure him into this [building up challengers for AEW World Heavyweight Champion MJF] right now until later.”
During last week’s ROH Final Battle media scrum, AEW President Tony Khan also addressed Omega’s absence. He acknowledged Omega’s crucial role in the promotion.
Chris Jericho addresses Kenny Omega’s absence on AEW Dynamite
Chris Jericho discussed Kenny Omega’s absence on the December 20, 2023, episode of AEW Dynamite. Addressing concerns about Omega’s health, Jericho mentioned in a backstage segment the ongoing efforts to determine the course of action for the title match.
Despite the uncertainty, Chris Jericho emphasized the significance of Omega’s well-being, expressing support from everyone. Jericho assured that he would be patiently awaiting Omega’s return. Moreover, he anticipated the resumption of The Golden Jets once Omega returns.
As Kenny Omega faces an extended recovery period, it remains to be seen if any other AEW stars will stand alongside Chris Jericho in his absence at Worlds End against Ricky Starks and Big Bill for the world tag team championship.
