Anthony Ogogo’s AEW Journey: Missed Opportunities and a Potential Path Forward
Anthony Ogogo, the Olympic medalist and professional boxer, has revealed a series of near misses within All Elite Wrestling (AEW), detailing plans that never materialized to join both the Blackpool Combat Club and the Inner Circle. These revelations, shared in an interview with ITR Wrestling, highlight the dynamic and often fluid nature of professional wrestling’s creative process.
The Inner Circle Opportunity: A Mentorship Under Chris Jericho
Initially, AEW President Tony Khan envisioned Ogogo being mentored by Chris Jericho as a bodyguard within the Inner Circle faction. According to Ogogo, Khan believed Jericho could guide his transition into professional wrestling. However, the opportunity ultimately went to Jake Hager, who had a pre-existing relationship with Jericho from their time in WWE. Ogogo credits Jericho with providing valuable guidance in the early stages of his AEW career, describing him as a “learning tree” and praising his ability to connect with audiences.
Blackpool Combat Club: Training with Danielson and Regal
Beyond the Inner Circle, Ogogo also trained with Bryan Danielson and William Regal with the intention of joining the Blackpool Combat Club. He underwent extensive training with both wrestlers, learning both the impactful style of Danielson and the old-school British wrestling techniques favored by Regal. Despite the dedicated preparation, the move to the Blackpool Combat Club never came to fruition.
The Importance of Versatility in Modern Wrestling
Ogogo emphasized the importance of versatility in today’s wrestling landscape. Regal taught him that a wrestler’s ability to perform both impactful power moves and intricate technical wrestling doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive. He noted that while he currently showcases a power-based style, he possesses the skills to incorporate more complex maneuvers when the creative direction calls for it.
Recent Ring Return and Future Prospects
Ogogo recently returned to action at ROH TV tapings in Jacksonville, Florida, marking his first match since November 2024. This return has sparked speculation about his future within the Khan-owned wrestling ecosystem. With Chris Jericho currently away from AEW programming since early 2025, and Tony Khan expressing a desire for Jericho’s return in the coming months, a renewed storyline involving Ogogo and Jericho remains a possibility.
The Evolving Landscape of Faction Dynamics in AEW
The shifting allegiances and formation of modern groups, like the pivot from the Blackpool Combat Club to the Death Riders following a dispute between Bryan Danielson and Jon Moxley, demonstrate AEW’s willingness to adapt and evolve its storylines. This fluidity creates opportunities for wrestlers like Ogogo to find their place within the company’s ever-changing landscape.
The Role of Mentorship in Wrestler Development
Tony Khan’s initial plan to pair Ogogo with Chris Jericho underscores the importance of mentorship in developing new talent. Experienced veterans like Jericho can provide invaluable guidance on in-ring psychology, character development, and connecting with the audience. This approach mirrors successful mentorships throughout wrestling history.
FAQ
Q: Was Anthony Ogogo ever officially a member of the Inner Circle or Blackpool Combat Club?
A: No, despite being considered for both groups, Ogogo was never officially a member of either faction.
Q: What is Chris Jericho’s current status with AEW?
A: Chris Jericho has been away from AEW programming since early 2025, but Tony Khan has expressed a desire for his return in the coming months.
Q: Who trained Anthony Ogogo when he first joined AEW?
A: Cody Rhodes, QT Marshall, and Dustin Rhodes trained Anthony Ogogo when he debuted in AEW in 2021.
Did you know? William Regal, who trained Ogogo for a potential Blackpool Combat Club spot, has since returned to WWE in a backstage role.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on AEW programming for potential storyline developments involving Anthony Ogogo and Chris Jericho, given their shared history and Tony Khan’s interest in Jericho’s return.
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