Ric Flair has responded after Will Ospreay and Kenny Omega’s latest encounter was compared to his legendary matches with Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat.

Ospreay defeated Omega at AEW All In: London 2026 to capture the AEW World Championship. The highly praised contest soon sparked comparisons with Flair and Steamboat’s iconic rivalry.

However, the WWE Hall of Famer believes Omega and Ospreay still have a long way to go before they can be placed alongside the legendary pair.

Writing on X, Flair said:

“No one has more respect for Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay than me! But to compare them to Steamboat and I is like comparing the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean!

“When they have a great match 300 times a year and 200-hour broadways, get back to me! Until then, there is no problem with being number two.

“You are great young talent, but let’s get serious, kids! You should only hope that you have people talking about your matches 37 years later! WOOOOO!”

Flair made it clear that he respects both AEW stars, but feels the longevity and demanding schedule of his rivalry with Steamboat places it on another level.

Omega and Ospreay have created several memorable moments together, while Flair and Steamboat’s matches remain celebrated by wrestling fans decades later.

No One Has More Respect For @KennyOmegamanX And @WillOspreay Than Me! But To Compare Them To Steamboat And I Is Like Comparing The Mississippi River To The Pacific Ocean! When They Have A Great Match 300 Times A Year And 200 Hour Broadways, Get Back To Me! Until Then, There Is No… pic.twitter.com/UFqcgPg8Zs

, Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) September 2, 2026