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Kenny Omega

Explore Kenny Omega's journey from his early wrestling days to becoming a celebrated figure in NJPW and AEW. Dive into his legacy.
Kenny Omega AEW Render 2023

Kenny Omega, whose real name is Tyson Smith, stands as a monumental figure in the world of professional wrestling. Born on October 16, 1983, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Omega has carved a niche for himself in the wrestling industry, earning accolades and respect from peers and fans alike.

Early Years and Rise in Wrestling

Kenny Omega’s journey into professional wrestling began in the early 2000s when he made his debut at Premier Championship Wrestling. Within a year, he clinched gold in the company. His prowess in the ring and unique charisma caught the attention of many, leading him to work with several independent promotions. By 2005, Omega had a brief stint with WWE’s developmental territory. However, due to disagreements with the working conditions, he parted ways with the company after a few months. Despite this setback, Omega’s star continued to rise as he won championships in PCW, JAPW, and DDT Pro Wrestling.

Achievements in PWG and NJPW

In 2008, Omega marked his presence in Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG) by debuting at the Battle of Los Angeles event. His dedication and hard work paid off when he won the PWG World Championship a year later. However, his reign was short-lived as he lost the title to Davey Richards in February.

New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) witnessed Omega’s debut in 2008, where he teamed up with Kota Ibushi to form the tag team “Golden Lovers”. By 2014, Omega underwent a significant transformation by adopting the “Cleaner” persona and joining the infamous Bullet Club. This move skyrocketed his career as he clinched the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship and later the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. His matches against Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi are still talked about as some of the best in wrestling history.

AEW and The Elite

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) saw Omega as one of its founding figures. His feuds with Jon Moxley and Chris Jericho were highlights of the promotion’s early days. Teaming up with Hangman Adam Page, the duo won the AEW World Tag Team Championship. However, differences arose, leading to their split. Omega’s heel turn saw him align with Don Callis, The Young Bucks, and The Good Brothers, forming the stable, The Elite. This phase marked Omega’s reign as the AEW World Champion.

Recent Endeavours

Omega’s recent achievements include winning the Impact World Championship from Rich Swann. However, he lost the title to Christian Cage after a few months. His rivalry with Hangman Adam Page culminated at Full Gear 2021, where Omega lost the AEW World Championship. Due to injuries, Omega took a hiatus from wrestling. His return in August 2022 saw him team up with The Young Bucks, winning the inaugural AEW World Trios Championship.

In a surprising turn of events, after a media scrum at All Out, tensions arose between Omega, The Young Bucks, and CM Punk, leading to AEW CEO Tony Khan suspending all involved and stripping them of their titles.

Legacy

Kenny Omega’s legacy in professional wrestling is undeniable. From his early days in independent promotions to his significant impact in NJPW and AEW, Omega has showcased his versatility, charisma, and unmatched wrestling skills. His matches are a testament to his dedication to the craft, and his influence on the industry will be felt for generations to come.

In conclusion, Kenny Omega’s journey from a young wrestler in Winnipeg to one of the most celebrated figures in professional wrestling is nothing short of inspirational. His passion, dedication, and commitment to the sport have made him a legend in his own right.