Jade Cargill and Rhea Ripley delivered a solid showdown for the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 42 last week. While their buildup left much to be desired, both competitors made sure to raise the bar when it mattered most, turning in a match that fans ultimately found entertaining.
The physicality on display was hard-hitting and distinct, but it was Cargill who produced one of the most talked-about moments of the bout. She pulled out a variation of the One-Winged Angel, a maneuver closely associated with Kenny Omega, with commentary dubbing her version the Sandstorm. The nod didn’t go unnoticed, as Omega himself later reacted to Cargill using his iconic finisher on such a massive stage.
Kenny Omega Is “Grateful” For Huge WrestleMania Shoutout
The former IWGP World Heavyweight champion took to social media to address Jade Cargill using his iconic finishing move on Rhea Ripley at WrestleMania 42. Rather than stirring controversy, Kenny Omega embraced the moment, making it clear he viewed it as a sign of respect rather than imitation.
He expressed appreciation for seeing his work resonate on such a massive platform, writing, “When I see the moves I do elsewhere, I only take it as a compliment. If somehow I inspired people to use them, I can only be grateful”.
Omega also admitted there was something special about witnessing his signature maneuver showcased on WWE’s biggest stage, adding, “Besides, seeing the OWA on the WM ring was kinda neat, right? It’s all good with me!”
When I see the moves I do elsewhere, I only take it as a compliment. If somehow I inspired people to use them, I can only be grateful.
— Kenny Omega (@KennyOmegamanX) April 20, 2026
Besides, seeing the OWA on the WM ring was kinda neat, right? It’s all good with me! pic.twitter.com/geEie5PBPC
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While fans may have been quick to spark debates over the use of the move, Omega’s response highlights a broader perspective within the industry, where influence and inspiration often outweigh rivalry, and performers continue to uplift professional wrestling as a whole rather than get caught up in comparisons.
Kenny Omega Has Backed Up Jade Cargill Over The Years
Over the years, Kenny Omega has consistently backed Jade Cargill, praising her growth and dedication inside the ring. His support was especially evident when Cargill made her high-profile jump from All Elite Wrestling to WWE, a move that drew criticism from sections of the fanbase.
As some fans voiced negativity over her decision, Omega didn’t hold back, calling out the backlash and urging for a more respectful approach. He emphasized that wrestlers pursuing new opportunities should be supported, not torn down, and labeled the criticism as unnecessary. “It’s embarrassing and shameful that some fans aren’t capable of the same”, wrote Omega.
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His response once again reflected a broader mindset within the industry: one that values respect, growth, and the freedom for performers to evolve in their careers without being subjected to unwarranted hostility.
