Sareee did not compete in the Owen Hart Foundation tournament on the recommendation of the AEW medical team

All Elite Wrestling surprised its fans with the announcement of Sareee's participation in the Owen Hart Foundation tournament, which would mark the Japanese star's debut in Tony Khan's company. However, at that time, the wrestler was injured, so her match was postponed for a few weeks, specifically until the episode of AEW Dynamite Summer Blockbuster.

Unfortunately, Sareee did not receive medical clearance in time, so her participation was canceled just hours before the show began. The Japanese wrestler was replaced by Maya World, who ended up defeating Skye Blue to advance to the semifinals. Later, Sareee granted an interview to BBM Japan, where she explained what happened.

"Regarding the condition of my neck, I had been cleared by a doctor in Japan to compete. However, the American side was very cautious, given that the injury was in the neck. To be honest, I can't say I'm 100%. But I believe opportunities are not meant to be waited for, but to be seized. Although I feel frustrated for not being able to compete in the end, I have no regrets. I think it made sense to have made my own decision and acted at that moment," she stated.

As an alternative plan, Sareee traveled to the United States with her partner Takumi Iroha, who was supposed to take her place in case she couldn't compete. However, All Elite Wrestling ultimately decided that Maya World would be her replacement.

"I am also truly grateful to Takumi Iroha, who accompanied me as a substitute and support. Although she didn't end up competing in the tournament as a substitute, AEW is full of hungry wrestlers eager to seize their opportunities, and the competition is fierce day by day. Maya, who competed as a substitute this time, has also faced a terrible tragedy — the sudden loss of a family member — and still continues to dedicate herself to professional wrestling. I believe AEW also wanted to give opportunities to wrestlers who keep moving forward and give their all, even in such difficult circumstances," she affirmed.

Despite not competing in the Owen Hart Foundation tournament, Iroha was rewarded with a match at the ROH Global Wars: Cincinnati event, which will be broadcast next week. Interestingly, Takumi faced off one-on-one with World's partner, Hyan.