Pride of Transcona named world’s top wrestler

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This article was published 07/09/2021 (1161 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipeg’s Kenny Omega has been named 2021’s top professional wrestler in the world on Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s annual Top 500 list.

It’s the second time the Transcona native has been voted as the squared circle’s best performer. Omega, who’s real name is Tyson Smith, earned the honour back in 2018 when he won New Japan Pro Wrestling’s IWGP World Heavyweight Championship.

The 37-year-old has had an unprecedented year, holding world championships for All Elite Wrestling, Impact Wrestling, and Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. Omega, the reigning AEW and AAA champ, has been the face of a red-hot AEW brand.

Omega is AEW’s longest reigning champion in company history as he’s carried the belt since Dec. 2, 2020 when he defeated Jon Moxley. AEW, which airs on TNT in the United States and TSN in Canada, was founded by Jacksonville Jaguars co-owner Tony Khan in 2019. Winnipegger Chris Jericho was the company’s first world champion.

Since 1991, PWI — an internationally sold wrestling magazine — has published its annual Top 500 list which bases the rankings on win-loss record, success against the highest level of competition, influence, activity, and in-ring talent. Over the years, names such as Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart, Steve Austin, Shawn Michaels, and John Cena have been ranked No. 1.

taylor.allen@freepress.mb.caTwitter: @TaylorAllen31