Various: Will Ospreay NJPW Contract to Expire in Feb. 2024, MLW & REELZ Update, Billy Graham Health Update

Will Ospreay Reveals NJPW Contract Expires in February of 2024

DAZN held a recent interview with Will Ospreay. One of the topics discussed included Ospreay’s thoughts on if getting high star ratings for his matches is something that actually matters to him.

“Yes and No.

The reason why I say no is because they don’t impact my paycheque. I still get paid the same regardless.

In my humble opinion, they don’t matter in terms of financial gain, but in terms of viewership, because I’m this British kid who has done it on Indy shows, I know that when my [NJPW] contract comes up, there’ll be a fight for who wants the best five-star wrestler right now.

If you ask somebody like Jay White, he hates it, and Bully Ray, he hates it as well. I can’t help but say that it’s done wonders for me.”

Ospreay also revealed that his contract with New Japan Pro Wrestling is currently set to expire in February of 2024.

“My contract with New Japan is up next February so from that point who’s not gonna want this kid who’s dedicated to being a hard worker and wanting to put on the best quality of matches.”

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MLW’s TV Deal with REELZ Status Update

As noted before, Major League Wrestling’s current television deal with REELZ Channel is for ten weeks in length and is expected to expire due to issues over REELZ’s recent streaming deal with Peacock.

In a recent statement to PWInsider, a REELZ Channel spokesperson stated the first season of MLW’s MLW Underground series on their network has concluded but they are currently in talks for a potential second season.

“Season 1 has ended and we are continuing talks for season 2.”

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“Superstar” Billy Graham Health Status Update

As noted before, WWE Hall of Famer Superstar Billy Graham is currently dealing with a bone infection that has spread to his bone ears and portion of his skull. Graham has been hospitalized for a second time over this health issue.

A health update was recently posted on Graham’s official Facebook page stating:

April 25, 2023

It has now been four months since Wayne has not been home, he has either been at the rehab center, or in the hospital.

Due to ongoing issues from his lack of appetite he has now lost 80 pounds and subsequently continues to struggle with extreme weakness. The Osteomyelitis infection in his ears,skull and sinus cavity remains his greatest challenge. He’s on strong IV antibiotics 3 times a day to treat this and the infectious disease doctor says he will need to be on them for at least 3 more months. As a result of this infection, he is currently completely deaf. We’re praying this is temporary, and will resolve as the infection is treated. He has intermittently also suffered with kidney issues, and been on dialysis. This in addition to Billy having heart and lung concerns, sores from being in bed for 4 months and depression.

The financial situation has become dire as Insurance is only covering part of this treatment. His rehab copay care is costing $200 a day, out of pocket. Unfortunately, both Wayne, and his wife Valerie, contracted Covid 2 months ago. And unfortunately In Valerie’s case she continues to struggle with what is now Long Covid and as a result she has had to extend her LOA, consequently this has left them with absolutely no income. The emotional strain of not being able to visit her husband, due to Covid, along with the deep concern over his health as well as their financial difficulties is heart-wrenching and very stressful for them both.

Anyone who could find it in their heart to donate any amount, would be so greatly appreciated. Thank you so much. Please help, and pray for the superstar to recover, and get back home where he belongs. God Bless you all, and thank you. He is in the fight of his life

https://www.gofundme.com/…/superstar-billy-grahams…