Ricochet Says AEW Tribute Match Helped Him Cope With PAC's Death
“The match helps the day go by, because without having to think about your match, you’re stuck thinking about sad times, basically.— Ricochet
Ricochet explained that wrestling Will Ospreay on AEW's tribute show for PAC provided him with a needed focus after the death of their friend. He told Zack Heydorn of The Takedown on SI that having a match to prepare for helped the day pass on the September 30 episode of Dynamite instead of dwelling on the sad times.
Ricochet noted that the preparation did not eliminate emotions but required concentration to avoid getting hurt during the bout. He added that directing his mind toward the contest for the day offered assistance in coping with the situation. Ricochet described how rapidly he and Ospreay assembled the match, saying "It's kind of criminal how quickly he (Will Ospreay) and I got all that together."
He stated that their strong working relationship and shared knowledge of Ben allowed them to quickly decide on the plan and part ways until showtime. Ricochet indicated that the goal was to deliver a performance for those in attendance who would value it.
The September 30 tribute show occurred at the Petersen Events Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ospreay defeated Ricochet by executing PAC's Black Arrow. PAC had died three days prior on September 27 at the age of 40. Ricochet and PAC had built a rivalry in Japan's Dragon Gate promotion.
Source: Wrestling Observer